The Federal government and the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) has launched Grant for Vulnerable Groups (GVG), providing100 vulnerable households in Abuja with N40,000 credit alerts to begin trade and starter packs comprising of sewing and grinding machine.

Speaking at the program launch in Abuja at the weekend, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro explained that the Grant for Vulnerable Groups (GVG) is a national flagship programme designed to help vulnerable households transition from survival to stability and from stability to sustained economic participation.

He mentioned that the programme will be implemented across all 774 Local Government Areas of the country with the goal of expanding opportunity for vulnerable populations.

The Minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya described the initiative as reaffirmation of government’s responsibility to support those who are most vulnerable in the society., reflecting a shift from broad interventions to targeted, people-centred action that responds directly to the realities of Nigerians most in need.

The Minister stated that the objective of the initiative is to provide direct financial support and starter inputs to the poorest and most vulnerable households, enabling them to meet immediate needs, stabilise livelihoods to enable them progress towards self-reliance. “This is not charity. It is strategic social investment in dignity, resilience, and national stability,” he said.

The National Coordinator and CEO, NSIPA, Assoc. Prof. Badamasi Lawal, said the launch reaffirm government’s commitment to ensuring governance is felt in the lives of ordinary people.

“The Grant for Vulnerable Groups is not just an intervention; it is a statement of purpose. Even the smallest enterprise can become a pathway to dignity. Support at the right moment can restore hope, and economic inclusion remains one of the strongest tools for reducing poverty and strengthening social stability,” he said.

National Programme Manager, GVG, Hajia Aishat Alubankudi, thanked Mr. President for entrusting NSIPA with the implementation of the programme. She emphasised that GVG arrives at a time when many households face real economic pressures. “Poverty limits productivity, weakens communities, and slows national development. When people are given not just relief but opportunity, they can rebuild, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

“That is the idea behind the Grant for Vulnerable Groups,” she said. She urged beneficiaries to use the equipment and support for their intended purpose: “The equipment provided is not for sale. It is a tool for your progress.” she stated.

She mentioned that the GVG package combines immediate input support including starter packs and equipment with credit alerts and accompanying guidance to help beneficiaries stabilise and grow their micro-enterprises

Alubankudi stated that NSIPA will monitor outcomes with the aim of measuring success by businesses sustained, incomes strengthened, families supported, and communities transformed—rather than by funds disbursed alone.