Governor’s Poverty Alleviation Programme Shows Progress
Governor Ahamadu Umar Finitri’s Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation programme has made significant strides in reducing the poverty index in Adamawa State. According to recent data, the poverty rate has dropped from 74 percent to 60 percent between January and August this year. This achievement was highlighted by Mr. Zira Michael, the state Director-General of the Poverty Allegation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA), during a press briefing in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State.
Michael emphasized that the governor has approved a budget of N5 billion for disbursement to 100,000 individuals by December this year. He noted that this financial support aligns with the administration’s long-standing commitment to poverty reduction and wealth creation since its inception. The initiative has been ongoing for over six years, with 50,000 people having received financial assistance during this period.
The first round of the programme supported 10,000 citizens, while 40,000 beneficiaries were empowered in 2023. This structured approach has ensured that more people are reaching the threshold of economic stability.
Focus on Skills Development and Youth Empowerment
In addition to financial aid, PAWECA has collaborated with various stakeholders to develop a comprehensive skills acquisition training programme. The goal is to equip young individuals with practical knowledge in specialized fields such as electrical engineering, solar panel installation, window fabrication, tailoring, and POP making. These skills are designed to help participants become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Michael urged the youth and women to seize these opportunities to transform their lives. He pointed out that the modern world increasingly values technical skills over traditional certifications. This shift underscores the importance of hands-on training and real-world expertise.
Addressing Fraudulent Activities
Despite the programme’s successes, there have been reports of fraudulent activities involving some unscrupulous individuals. Michael acknowledged that the agency has received complaints about people exploiting others. However, he assured the public that these issues have been addressed.
He also revealed that the agency has blocked the names of 1,560 supposed beneficiaries due to double registration. Additionally, 7,001 fake registration forms were detected and invalidated. These measures reflect the agency’s commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in the distribution process.
Call for Honesty and Integrity
Michael called on the public to maintain honesty and integrity in all their dealings. He emphasized that the success of the poverty alleviation programme depends on the cooperation and responsibility of every citizen. By adhering to ethical practices, individuals can ensure that the benefits of the programme reach those who truly need them.