The federal government has inaugurated a grant implementation team to coordinate a key World Bank–supported initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s social protection system.
The team was set up by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction under the leadership of the Minister, Bernard Doro, as part of preparations for the World Bank’s Grant Facility for Project Preparation (GFPP).
Speaking at the inauguration, the minister explained that the grant would fund preparatory work for the Household Prosperity and Empowerment Social Protection (HOPE-SP) Project.
The initiative is expected to build on gains from the National Social Safety Nets Programme Scale Up (NASSP-SU), which is scheduled to conclude in June 2026.
He described the upcoming project as a flagship national intervention designed to modernise Nigeria’s social protection framework, improve coordination across agencies, and ensure interventions are more targeted, efficient, and data-driven.
The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Olubunmi Olusanya, tasked the newly inaugurated team with delivering on the grant’s objectives while maintaining strict compliance with both government regulations and World Bank standards.
The team has been directed to implement the grant work plan diligently, ensure transparent management of funds, produce high-quality technical documentation, and adhere strictly to timelines.
A final work plan is expected to be submitted to the grant advisory committee on or before April 27, 2026.
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Representing the World Bank, Senior Economist, Maheshwor Shrestha noted that the GFPP is a new financing instrument designed to fast-track project readiness by supporting technical design, assessments, and institutional capacity development.
He added that the grant would help Nigeria establish a more sustainable, government-driven social protection system, while still leveraging international support where necessary.
Responding on behalf of the team, Director of Social Development and team lead, Valentine I. Ezulu assured the ministry of their commitment to collaboration and timely execution.
He emphasised that the team’s work would focus on ensuring the project delivers meaningful impact to millions of poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
The 12-member team is expected to play a critical role in laying the groundwork for what officials describe as a transformative step in Nigeria’s poverty reduction and social safety net efforts.
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