The Oyo State Government has partnered with the Federal Government to address the challenges faced by vulnerable members of society.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Toyin Balogun, announced this on Wednesday during the unveiling and symbolic presentation of debit cards to beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Cash Transfer programme across the 33 Local Government Areas in the state.
The event took place at the Ibadan South-East Local Government Secretariat, Mapo, Ibadan.
According to the state government, the initiative is a collective effort to mitigate the current harsh economic realities, alleviate poverty, and improve the lives of citizens.
“The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Oyo State Government, has prioritised initiatives aimed at providing direct financial support to those who need it most, in response to the economic situation in the country, which presents significant challenges, especially to those at the grassroots.
“The cash transfer programme is a core component of the Federal Government’s social intervention agenda, designed to empower families to meet their basic needs and achieve sustainable livelihoods.
“This programme is not just about providing financial assistance but also equipping our people with a foundation to build a better future for themselves and their families,” Balogun said.
She further disclosed that over 10,000 beneficiaries had been selected across the 33 Local Government Areas in the state by the National Cash Transfer Office under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Balogun highlighted the importance of the debit card distribution, describing it as a critical improvement in the way beneficiaries access their funds. Each beneficiary is entitled to N25,000 monthly for three months under the scheme.
She urged the beneficiaries to view the funds as an opportunity to secure a better future by investing in areas that would improve their household’s well-being, such as education, healthcare, and small-scale businesses.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ibitoye Mofoluwake, stated that the distribution of debit cards symbolises hope and represents a step towards restoring dignity to the people.
The Chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government and host of the event, Oluwole Alawode, expressed gratitude to the government for its efforts in improving the lives of the downtrodden and vulnerable members of society.
