FG, World Bank review NG-CARES, earmark $500m to empower vulnerable Nigerians

Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has evaluated the performance of Independent Verification Agents (IVAs) to pave the way for a $500 million reimbursement to stakeholders of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) 2.0 Programme, covering all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

At a vibrant zonal stakeholders’ consultative meeting held in Lagos on Friday, participants underscored the importance of accountability, credibility, and transparency in the IVA process.

The gathering, which included representatives from the World Bank, federal and state governments, and implementing partners, featured heartfelt testimonies from South-West beneficiaries who highlighted the transformative impact of NG-CARES on their livelihoods.

National Coordinator of NG-CARES, Dr. Abdulkarim Obaje, emphasized the priority of ensuring relief reaches the intended recipients.

“Accountability and transparency are at the heart of this programme for us, the World Bank, and all stakeholders,” Obaje stated, adding that efforts are underway to address challenges and enhance efficiency in the upcoming phase.

He revealed that an additional $500 million in financing has been approved, making system improvements critical.

Obaje explained that beneficiary selection relies on 11 endorsement link indicators, with candidates drawn from state-owned social registers or registered groups like FADAMA and Community Basic Services.

“These registers are developed by state governments, ensuring beneficiaries are carefully selected,” he noted.

Mr. Lire Ersado, NG-CARES Task Team Leader, highlighted the IVA’s pivotal role in verifying results.

“The IVA ensures that claimed outcomes are real, guaranteeing that the right beneficiaries receive support,” Ersado said.

He noted that similar meetings were held in Delta, Nasarawa, and Kebbi, with insights from all four shaping the reimbursement process.

“Accurate data and reliable IVA reports are essential for confirming results and incentivizing states to deliver more,” he added.

The NG-CARES programme, initially launched to mitigate the economic fallout of COVID-19, has evolved into a robust platform for supporting vulnerable households and stimulating local economies through social transfers, livelihood grants, and basic services.