The Federal Government has called on the private sector to increase its involvement in addressing poverty in Nigeria. This appeal was made by Delu Yakubu, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, during the inauguration of the Shola Mese Foundation’s free skill acquisition program in Abuja on Saturday.
Yakubu, representing the President at the event, emphasized the critical need for collaboration between the government and private sector to effectively combat poverty and associated issues. “The government cannot handle such things alone; it’s a plus to the government when private foundations step in,” Yakubu stated.
Highlighting the importance of collective action, Yakubu pointed out the urgent need to address challenges faced by out-of-school children, persons with special needs, widows, and Almajiri (child beggars). He added, “The government will always appreciate foundations like this.”
This call to action comes amid ongoing humanitarian and poverty challenges in Nigeria. Recent statistics indicate that over 90 million Nigerians live below the poverty line, with many more struggling to access essential services like education and healthcare.
While the Federal Government has initiated various programs to tackle these issues, it recognizes the necessity for additional support from the private sector. The Shola Mese Foundation’s newly inaugurated Skill Acquisition Centre and Widows Outreach Programme in Apo Dutse Community, Abuja, is one such initiative aimed at empowering individuals and providing economic support to underprivileged widows.
Mrs. Onyeka Shola-Mese, the foundation’s Managing Director, stated, “This initiative is aimed at empowering individuals who lack the financial means to learn valuable skills and providing a lifeline to underprivileged widows who need economic support to rebuild their lives.” The program offers training in various skills such as fashion design, catering, and computer appreciation.
The foundation appeals to the community and the private sector to support this initiative, promising mutual benefits and significant positive impacts on the lives of millions of Nigerians.
