The Jigawa State Government has pledged to sustain inclusive social protection initiatives following the close-out of the Inclusive Social Protection Systems programme implemented by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in collaboration with Action Against Hunger Nigeria (ACF).

Speaking at the close-out event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Muhammad Sagir, who represented members of the State Social Protection Council, commended Action Against Hunger Nigeria for its support to the state.

He assured that the government would sustain the gains of the programme, noting that the necessary structures have already been established.

“We commend Action Against Hunger for strengthening our social protection programmes across 21 agencies. As a result, the lives of thousands of vulnerable people have improved across the 27 local government areas of the state,” he said.

Sagir reiterated the commitment of the present administration to improving the welfare of citizens, particularly the vulnerable.

“The government will do everything possible to sustain this effort, as it remains committed to improving the lives of its citizens, especially the most vulnerable,” he added.

In his close-out remarks, Acting Country Director of Action Against Hunger Nigeria, Mr. Andualem Fekadu, described the programme’s conclusion not as an end, but as a transition to greater state ownership and community-driven action.
According to him, the close-out marks a shift from externally supported implementation to institutionalised reforms capable of outlasting donor funding.

“This is not the end, but a transition—towards deeper state ownership, community-led action, and reforms that can endure beyond any single grant,” he said.

Fekadu noted that the programme has strengthened inclusive social protection practices, enabling stakeholders to better identify and address the needs of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, older persons, women, and other marginalised populations.

He added that the intervention has also empowered civil society organisations, community advocates, and the media with improved skills and tools to influence policy, monitor programme delivery, and promote inclusive reforms.

The project, he said, enhanced evidence-based decision-making through improved data systems, analysis, and feedback mechanisms, thereby strengthening the targeting and responsiveness of social protection interventions.

Fekadu attributed the programme’s success to the Jigawa State Government’s political will and sustained commitment, as well as strong collaboration among stakeholders.

He highlighted key success factors to include effective coordination through the Technical Working Group (TWG) and the Social Protection Council, active community participation, and robust partnerships among ACF, FCDO, government agencies, and civil society organisations.

“As we close this grant, we celebrate not an ending, but a continuation of shared responsibility. Together, we have laid the foundation for institutional transformation that will continue to grow with the commitment of all stakeholders,” he said.