The Traffic

EU Pumps €46 Million into Nigeria’s Social Welfare—Here’s Who Benefits

By Achimi Muktar

In a major boost to Nigeria’s social welfare system, the European Union (EU) has committed a whopping €46 million to strengthen social protection programs across the country. The initiative, dubbed the "Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria," was officially launched at the United Nations House in Abuja, marking a turning point in the country’s fight against poverty and economic instability.

A Lifeline for Nigeria’s Most Vulnerable

This intervention, spearheaded through a partnership between the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning (FMBEP) and the EU, is designed to address gaps in Nigeria’s National Social Protection Register—a crucial tool for targeting and assisting disadvantaged communities.

According to a statement by Osagie Jacobs J.I, Director of Information & Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning, the program aims to ensure social protection efforts are data-driven, efficient, and better prepared for future economic shocks.

Where the Money is Going

The €46 million will be funneled into a three-year pilot program covering four states: Abia, Benue, Oyo, and Sokoto.

The goal? To create a more responsive, efficient, and inclusive social safety net that can quickly adapt to economic downturns and social crises.

Beneficiaries? The country’s most vulnerable populations, particularly low-income families, unemployed youth, and at-risk communities.

Who’s Running the Show?

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) will oversee the program, providing technical support, policy advisory services, and program design expertise. They will work alongside Nigeria’s Federal Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs, Poverty Alleviation, Labour, and Employment to ensure seamless implementation.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, described the initiative as a “game-changer” for Nigeria’s social protection framework, reaffirming the government’s commitment to lifting millions out of poverty.

A Bigger EU Commitment

This latest funding adds to the EU’s long-standing investments in poverty reduction, healthcare, and governance reforms across Nigeria. Over the years, the EU has supported various humanitarian and social development projects, reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria’s long-term stability.

What Comes Next?

The Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria will focus on delivering the following:
✔ An improved National Social Register for better targeting of beneficiaries.
✔ Stronger legal frameworks to support long-term social welfare policies.
✔ Capacity-building for policymakers to improve decision-making in social protection.
✔ A more efficient Social Protection Management Information System to streamline resource allocation.

With €46 million on the table, this initiative could redefine social welfare in Nigeria—but will it be enough to bridge the gap for millions still struggling? Time will tell.