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FG Unveils $1bn HOPE-SP Programme Targeting 7.6m Vulnerable Households

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FG Unveils $1bn HOPE-SP Programme Targeting 7.6m Vulnerable Households
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Mr Bernard Doro

FG Unveils $1bn HOPE-SP Programme Targeting 7.6m Vulnerable Households

The Federal Government has launched a $1 billion social protection programme targeting about 7.6 million vulnerable households across Nigeria, marking a fundamental shift from temporary palliatives to sustainable pathways out of poverty. The initiative, known as the Renewed Hope Social Protection Programme, was unveiled on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja. The event, themed “From Palliatives to Pathways,” underscored the administration’s commitment to ensuring that vulnerable Nigerians do not remain permanently dependent on government assistance but are instead empowered to achieve self-reliance and prosperity. The First Lady described the programme as an important step towards improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities across the country, emphasising that the days of ad-hoc, uncoordinated interventions were giving way to a structured, data-driven approach to poverty reduction.

At the heart of the new architecture is the Household Prosperity and Empowerment Social Protection Project (HOPE-SP) . This $1 billion initiative is designed to move vulnerable households beyond temporary financial assistance towards sustainable economic empowerment. Under the new system, the household — rather than individual government programmes — becomes the centre of social protection policy. Vulnerable households will be identified, their needs assessed, and their progress monitored through what the government describes as a “poverty graduation pathway” . According to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, the objective is to “move from programmes to households, and from counting beneficiaries to measuring impact” . He explained that the government was moving away from a fragmented system where ministries, departments, and agencies operated separate social intervention programmes and databases without sufficient coordination. “We have a system where we want to deliberately track poverty,” Doro said, emphasizing that the new approach would focus on monitoring households and measuring their progress rather than simply distributing assistance without assessing its impact.

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A key component of the new social protection framework is the Emergency Cash Transfer Programme, which aims to provide rapid financial support to households affected by economic shocks. Eligible households under the programme are expected to receive a one-off digital shock-response transfer of ₦40,000 . However, beneficiaries must be registered on the National Social Register and validated with their National Identification Numbers (NIN) . The government is working with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to facilitate NIN registration and improve the verification process. This collaboration is expected to ensure that only eligible households receive assistance, reducing the risk of fraud and duplication. The minister disclosed that the Federal Government has already disbursed more than ₦600 billion in cash transfers to vulnerable Nigerians over the past three years, reaching slightly over 10 million households . The new initiative builds on this foundation while introducing a more structured and accountable system.

Alongside the HOPE-SP programme, the government unveiled the One-Humanitarian-One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS) . This platform provides a coordinated national mechanism for responding to humanitarian emergencies, delivering social protection, and tackling poverty. The system is expected to eliminate duplication among government interventions while maintaining unified national registries through which poor and vulnerable households can be identified, supported, and tracked as they progress towards prosperity. Explaining the rationale behind OHOPRS, Minister Doro said that Nigeria cannot continue with a system where one vulnerable household receives interventions from several institutions while another equally vulnerable household remains unseen. Under the new framework, beneficiaries would not simply receive assistance and disappear from government records. Instead, their progress would be tracked from identification and intervention through economic inclusion and eventual exit from poverty into what the government describes as a growth register . This unified approach is expected to end the practice of different agencies maintaining separate registers and data centres, ensuring that resources are deployed more efficiently and reach those who need them most.

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To strengthen evidence-based decision-making, the minister announced plans to establish a National Poverty Intelligence Lab to provide data and analysis for government interventions . The lab will support the government’s ability to determine not only who is receiving assistance, but whether interventions are producing measurable improvements in the economic circumstances of beneficiaries. Doro explained that existing databases would be integrated into a unified platform anchored on the National Social Register, which currently contains about 20 million households . The success of social protection programmes would no longer be judged by the quantity of food, cash, or other materials distributed, but by the number of households protected against economic shocks, economically included, and ultimately lifted out of poverty. The minister stressed that the ultimate objective is not merely to increase the number of interventions but to ensure that assistance produces measurable improvement in people’s lives: “The question must go beyond how many people received assistance. We must know whether the household recovered, whether it became more resilient and whether it is progressing towards self-reliance and prosperity.”

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, emphasised that the success of the programme would require a whole-of-government approach involving federal, state, and local governments, development partners, and other stakeholders . He noted that the Tinubu administration’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy by 2030 must be accompanied by deliberate efforts to ensure inclusive growth. The government has stressed that the new social protection architecture is particularly significant against the backdrop of the far-reaching economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of the foreign exchange market . While these reforms have improved investor confidence and strengthened government revenues, attention must also be directed at protecting Nigerians from economic shocks and providing sustainable routes out of poverty. Bagudu noted that economic growth alone would not automatically translate into poverty reduction unless deliberate measures were put in place to ensure that vulnerable populations were not left behind. The new social protection framework, he said, was designed to complement the administration’s broader economic reforms by providing a safety net for those most affected by the transition.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, speaking at the launch, said the programme could contribute to addressing some of the underlying causes of insecurity in the country . Zulum noted that poverty, illiteracy, and social inequality were among the factors contributing to insurgency and crises, stressing that military action alone could not permanently resolve such challenges. “The kinetic measures alone will never end the insurgency. Addressing the social, economic, and political dimension of the crisis is synchronous to addressing insecurity challenges in Nigeria.” Governor Zulum’s remarks underscored the broader significance of the programme beyond poverty reduction. By addressing the root causes of social unrest and instability, the initiative could contribute to long-term peace and security in conflict-affected regions.

For the 7.6 million households targeted by the programme, the launch represents a potential lifeline. The key features for beneficiaries include a one-off ₦40,000 digital cash transfer for eligible households registered on the National Social Register and validated with NIN; needs-based assessment to determine appropriate interventions tailored to each household’s specific circumstances; tracking and monitoring through the poverty graduation pathway to measure progress over time; and integration into broader economic inclusion programmes where necessary, including skills training, livelihood support, and access to finance. The government has made it clear that the new approach is not about creating permanent dependence on government assistance. Instead, it aims to provide immediate stabilisation assistance while placing households on a pathway to recovery, empowerment, and self-reliance.

While the government has not yet disclosed the full timeline for disbursement under the new emergency cash transfer programme, the launch of the framework marks a significant step towards a more coordinated, responsive, and results-oriented social protection system . The Federal Government has emphasised that the new architecture will be supported by unified data systems integrating existing databases into a single platform; digital delivery infrastructure for efficient and transparent cash transfers; new financing arrangements to sustain the programme; and real-time poverty intelligence through the National Poverty Intelligence Lab. The minister expressed confidence that the new framework would enable the government to respond more effectively to economic shocks, natural disasters, and other emergencies while building the resilience of vulnerable households.

FG Unveils $1bn HOPE-SP Programme Targeting 7.6m Vulnerable Households

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Oshiomhole Accuses Umahi of Bias in Road Projects, Demands Repairs Before New Construction

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October 11, 2026

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Oshiomhole Accuses Umahi of Bias in Road Projects, Demands Repairs Before New Construction
Senator Adams Oshiomhole

Oshiomhole Accuses Umahi of Bias in Road Projects, Demands Repairs Before New Construction

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has accused the Minister of Works, David Umahi, of alleged bias in the allocation of funds for federal road projects, insisting that the government should prioritise the rehabilitation of deteriorating highways before embarking on new construction.

Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North Senatorial District, made the allegations during a podcast interview shared on social media, revisiting his disagreement with Umahi over the management of federal road infrastructure and budgetary priorities.

The former Edo State governor said his criticism of the minister during a Senate budget-defence session was part of his responsibility to scrutinise government spending and ensure that public funds address the most pressing infrastructure needs.

According to Oshiomhole, several existing federal roads across the country have deteriorated to the point where motorists and commuters struggle to use them, yet the Ministry of Works continues to pursue new projects.

He argued that the government should concentrate available resources on rehabilitating roads that have become severely damaged instead of expanding the project portfolio while critical routes remain in poor condition.

“As a manager, you do not keep on building new houses when you cannot maintain the houses you already have. It is common sense,” Oshiomhole said.

The senator maintained that his intervention was not politically motivated, despite both men belonging to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

He also criticised what he described as Umahi’s tendency to invoke President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s name when responding to questions about the ministry’s decisions.

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Oshiomhole argued that the responsibility for identifying road maintenance priorities, assessing infrastructure conditions and proposing appropriate budgetary allocations rests with the minister rather than the President having to intervene in individual projects.

“Ministers should not drop his name to cover up their own mess,” he said.

The lawmaker further questioned the proposal to submit additional road projects to the Federal Executive Council when existing highways still require urgent attention. He called for greater coordination between the Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), which is responsible for maintaining federal roads.

Oshiomhole urged the minister to use reports from federal directors of works across the country’s geopolitical zones to identify the most urgent rehabilitation needs and guide spending decisions.

The senator’s latest comments follow his July 2026 criticism of the minister over the condition of major highways linking Edo and Delta states.

During a Senate plenary session, Oshiomhole complained about the condition of routes connecting Benin City with Warri, Asaba, Auchi and Okene, arguing that motorists continued to face serious difficulties despite the approval of new road projects elsewhere.

He alleged that critical sections of roads in the two states had been left out of federal budgetary allocations over several years and urged the Senate leadership to press the minister for a more balanced approach to infrastructure development.

Oshiomhole also said presidential intervention through tax credits had helped address parts of the affected road network.

The disagreement between the two APC figures had previously surfaced during a Senate budget-defence session in February 2026, when lawmakers questioned Umahi about the funding and implementation of major federal highway projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

During that exchange, Oshiomhole raised concerns about transparency in road funding and delays in releasing money for projects. Umahi, in turn, complained about the manner in which the senator questioned him, leading to a heated exchange before the session continued.

Umahi has also faced criticism over claims that federal road projects are concentrated in the South-East. In September, however, the minister rejected allegations of regional favouritism, insisting that projects were being implemented across the country in line with approvals granted by President Tinubu.

At an October 7 press conference, the Ministry of Works outlined progress on major federal highway projects and other road interventions, including work on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Trans-Saharan Highway corridor.

The ministry has also acknowledged challenges involving funding, contractors and project delivery. In June, Umahi warned contractors handling federal road projects against delays and said funding constraints had forced adjustments to the scope of some highway works.

Oshiomhole’s criticism has renewed debate over how the Federal Government should balance the construction of new highways with the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing roads.

While the senator is calling for greater attention to deteriorating routes, the minister’s position is that the government’s infrastructure programme covers strategic projects across multiple regions.

The key questions remain how road projects are prioritised, how available funds are distributed and how the government can ensure that existing highways receive timely repairs while major new infrastructure investments continue.

Oshiomhole has called on the Senate to strengthen its oversight of the Ministry of Works and ensure that road spending reflects the needs of communities and motorists across the country.

 

Oshiomhole Accuses Umahi of Bias in Road Projects, Demands Repairs Before New Construction

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OASIS Muslim Care Foundation Holds Webinar on Healthy Lifestyles, NCD Prevention

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October 10, 2026

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OASIS Muslim Care Foundation Holds Webinar on Healthy Lifestyles, NCD Prevention

The OASIS Muslim Care Foundation is set to host its fourth public health webinar on Sunday, October 11, 2026, focusing on the promotion of healthy lifestyles as a strategy for preventing and controlling non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The webinar, titled “Promoting Healthy Lifestyles for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs),” is expected to educate participants on the importance of adopting healthier habits to reduce the risk of diseases that pose significant public health challenges.

The session will be delivered by Dr. Ibraheem AbdulRauf, a Consultant Family Physician at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

Dr. AbdulRauf holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), a Master of Public Health (MPH) and fellowship qualifications in family medicine (FMCFM).

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According to the event announcement, the webinar is part of the foundation’s public health engagement efforts aimed at promoting awareness and encouraging individuals to take practical steps towards improving their health and well-being.

Non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases, are major health concerns worldwide. Many of these conditions are associated with risk factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful alcohol consumption.

Health education and the adoption of healthy lifestyle practices are important measures for reducing the risk of such diseases and improving the quality of life.

The online event is scheduled to commence at 4:30 p.m. West Africa Time (WAT) and will be held via Zoom.

Interested participants can join the webinar using the following details:

Meeting ID: 876 1750 3784

Passcode: 060021

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87617503784?pwd=Xf2f6XuCfunLuNYjnbqjVfz92EFAt9.1

The foundation has invited members of the public to participate in the session and share the announcement with others to widen awareness of healthy living and the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.

The webinar is open to everyone interested in learning more about practical approaches to maintaining good health and preventing lifestyle-related illnesses.

OASIS Muslim Care Foundation Holds Webinar on Healthy Lifestyles, NCD Prevention

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₦60 Fuel Discount: Ondo ADC Slams Tinubu, Says Atiku Deserves Credit for Subsidy Restoration

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October 9, 2026

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₦60 Fuel Discount: Ondo ADC Slams Tinubu, Says Atiku Deserves Credit for Subsidy Restoration

The party describes the discount as inadequate relief for Nigerians battling rising petrol prices, transportation costs and the high cost of living ahead of the 2027 general election.

The Ondo State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration over its reported ₦60-per-litre petrol discount, describing the measure as inadequate to address the economic hardship confronting millions of Nigerians.

The party also commended former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for advocating the restoration of fuel subsidy, arguing that government policies should prioritise citizens’ welfare and provide meaningful relief from the rising cost of living.

The ADC’s position was contained in a press statement signed by its Ondo State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Remi Ofakunrin, in which the party accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government of offering Nigerians insufficient relief amid soaring fuel prices and declining purchasing power.

According to the statement, the reported ₦60 discount falls far short of what households, businesses, transport operators, students and workers need to cope with the prevailing economic challenges.

The party argued that Nigerians require sustainable measures to reduce the cost of living rather than temporary interventions that have limited reach and impact.

“At a time when Nigerians are struggling to survive the crushing cost of living, with petrol prices reportedly hovering around ₦1,400 per litre, the government’s decision to offer a mere ₦60 discount is not the relief citizens deserve,” the statement said.

The opposition party maintained that the discount was insignificant compared with the financial pressure experienced by ordinary Nigerians, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on transportation and fuel-powered businesses.

It accused the Tinubu administration of expecting public approval for what it described as a token concession after implementing policies that have significantly affected household budgets and business operating costs.

ADC questions petrol prices despite Nigeria’s crude oil resources

The ADC also questioned why petrol prices remained so high in Nigeria, an oil-producing country, despite the availability of abundant crude oil resources.

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It asked why citizens should continue to struggle with the cost of fuel and other essential commodities while bearing the consequences of government economic policies.

The party further argued that the discount underscored the need for government intervention to cushion the effects of high fuel prices on the wider economy.

According to the ADC, the measure demonstrated that the consequences of petrol pricing remained a major concern requiring a broader policy response.

However, the party said a temporary discount at selected Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) filling stations could not provide lasting relief from the rising costs of food, transportation, production and other necessities.

It called on the Federal Government to adopt a more comprehensive and transparent approach to addressing fuel costs and their impact on Nigerians.

The ADC also urged the government to explain how the country’s oil resources could be better managed to improve citizens’ living conditions and promote national prosperity.

Atiku deserves credit for subsidy restoration advocacy — ADC

The Ondo ADC chapter used the statement to commend Atiku Abubakar for advocating the restoration of fuel subsidy as part of a broader strategy to ease economic hardship and improve the welfare of Nigerians.

The party said Atiku’s position deserved consideration, insisting that the debate should focus on how economic policies could protect citizens’ purchasing power and ensure that the benefits of the country’s natural resources reached ordinary people.

According to the ADC, the reported fuel discount reinforces the argument that government intervention may be necessary to cushion the effects of high petrol prices, although it maintained that the current measure was inadequate.

The party called for a more sustainable framework capable of delivering meaningful relief rather than temporary concessions.

It said Atiku and the ADC were committed to an economic direction that would enable workers to earn a living wage, businesses to operate sustainably and families to afford food, transportation, education and healthcare.

Beyond fuel subsidy, the party said its proposed policy direction included economic recovery, improved purchasing power, affordable education, local government autonomy, the fight against insecurity and corruption, and responsible management of national resources.

The statement presented these priorities as part of the party’s broader vision for addressing the country’s economic and governance challenges.

ADC urges Nigerians to vote for change in 2027

With the 2027 general election approaching, the Ondo ADC urged Nigerians to assess the performance of the current administration and consider alternative leadership.

The party cautioned citizens against being swayed by temporary concessions that, in its view, failed to address the underlying causes of economic hardship.

It called on voters to support Atiku Abubakar and other ADC candidates, arguing that a change in leadership and policy direction could provide an opportunity to improve living standards and restore public confidence in government.

The party said Nigeria needed leadership capable of addressing economic difficulties, insecurity and declining purchasing power while promoting national unity and development.

It also expressed confidence that the country could harness its human and natural resources to create prosperity and improve the welfare of present and future generations.

“A ₦60 discount cannot erase years of blanket display of mercilessness and economic hardship, but a change in leadership and policy direction can begin the process of national recovery,” the statement said.

The ADC consequently called on Nigerians to demand economic reforms that would produce measurable improvements in their daily lives and support the party in the 2027 elections.

Fuel pricing remains a major political issue

The statement highlights the continuing political debate over petrol pricing, the removal of fuel subsidy and the government’s responsibility to cushion the effects of economic reforms.

While the Tinubu administration has defended its economic policy direction as part of efforts to reform the economy, opposition parties have continued to raise concerns about the effects of higher fuel costs on transportation, food prices, businesses and household incomes.

The Ondo ADC’s latest position places fuel subsidy and the affordability of petrol at the centre of its campaign message ahead of the next general election.

However, the party’s claims about the adequacy of the discount and the benefits of subsidy restoration reflect its political position. The actual impact of any fuel discount depends on its implementation, duration, eligibility conditions and the extent to which the savings are passed on to consumers.

The statement was signed by Hon. Remi Ofakunrin, Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress in Ondo State.

The party concluded by insisting that Nigerians deserved meaningful economic relief and urging voters to support what it described as an alternative path to national recovery.

₦60 Fuel Discount: Ondo ADC Slams Tinubu, Says Atiku Deserves Credit for Subsidy Restoration

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