As the world commemorates the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Federal Government’s vision of eradicating poverty in the country.

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17, highlights the plight of people living in poverty and calls for global action to end it.

NG-CARES noted that it remains focused on improving access to livelihoods, basic social services, food security, and economic opportunities for the poor and vulnerable.

Speaking on the significance of the day, the National Coordinator of the Federal CARES Support Unit, Dr. Abdulkarim Obaje, said the Federal Government’s vision has driven NG-CARES to implement transformative interventions over the past two years.

He explained that these interventions have enhanced access to essential services, strengthened livelihoods, and restored hope to communities most affected by economic shocks.

Dr. Obaje commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to poverty reduction under the Renewed Hope Agenda and lauded the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, for his consistent policy guidance and support for the NG-CARES Programme.

He noted that the coordinated efforts of the programme have expanded access to financial inclusion, boosted agricultural productivity, and contributed to steady declines in poverty levels across states.

“The theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for All,’ aligns with the core objectives of NG-CARES—restoring livelihoods, creating opportunities, and ensuring that every Nigerian, particularly the poor and vulnerable, can live a life of dignity and productivity,” Obaje said, adding that safety remains a priority under the Labour Intensive Public Works (LIPW) component of the programme.

A statement signed by the Information and Communication Officer of NG-CARES, Suleiman Odapu, revealed that over 13,102,727 Nigerians have benefited from the programme’s Basic Services component, which includes social transfers, LIPW, livelihood support, and community infrastructure.

In the area of food security, more than 4,158,896 farmers have received support, while over 349,859 micro, small, and nano enterprises have been assisted nationwide—strengthening local economies and promoting inclusive growth.