Get Guardian on GoogleThe Federal Government has formally unveiled the National Policy on Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) in Humanitarian Context and its Implementation Plan to build a more coordinated, dignified and people-centred humanitarian system.
The launch, yesterday, in Abuja, brought together senior government officials, development partners, UN agencies, civil society groups, and humanitarian stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, said the initiative is a landmark moment in Nigeria’s humanitarian response.
His words: “Cash and voucher assistance represents one of the most dignified, transparent, and empowering modalities for humanitarian aid, allowing affected families to make choices based on their needs while boosting local markets.”
He emphasised that the policy institutionalises cash transfers as a key humanitarian tool that aligns with federal priorities to expand social protection, reduce poverty, enhance resilience, and ensure dignity for crisis-affected populations.
The 2025–2030 policy framework sets out standards for coordinated cash-based interventions across government, UN agencies, humanitarian organisations, and development partners.
Sununu urged state and local governments to adopt and domesticate the policy for national impact.
He commended the World Food Programme (WFP), European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), and the National Humanitarian Coordination Technical Working Group for their technical and strategic contributions.
Representing the World Food Programme, Edward Thiam commended Nigeria’s leadership.
According to him, “we must thank the Federal Ministry for credible policies that truly reflect the needs of ordinary Nigerians. With over 6.7 million internally displaced persons and hundreds of thousands of refugees in neighbouring countries, this policy aligns with the mission to ensure protection, dignity, and durable solutions.”
In her goodwill message, newly appointed Edo State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Bisi Idaomi, applauded the Federal Government’s commitment to improving lives, stressing that Nigeria deserves, and Nigerians deserve to be looked after.
Speaking on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Director of Gender Affairs, Adamu Samaila, emphasised the policy’s importance for women and vulnerable groups.
