By Amos Aar
A TOTAL of three thousand, nine hundred and sixty-eight (3,968) people in Benue State will each receive one hundred and fifty thousand naira (₦150,000) under a livelihood support program aimed at alleviating poverty and fostering economic empowerment.
The initiative, executed through the ALIA-CARES program, formally known as Benue Community Action Resilience and Economic Stimulus (BN-CARES), is in collaboration with the Benue State Cash Transfer Unit (SCUT).
The disclosure was made during a three-day training held at Smile View Hotels, Makurdi, to equip beneficiaries with essential short-term and soft skills. The training, conducted as part of the Livelihood Support Disbursement Link Indicator (DLI 1.3), focused on imparting practical knowledge to help recipients manage their grants effectively.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hon. Aondowase Kunde, represented by Mr. Leo Angelo Viashima who is the Director General, Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BIDC), officially opened the training.
He emphasised the judicious use of funds, urging participants to focus on sustainable livelihood initiatives.
“This initiative is a testament to Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable citizens. It is not just about financial support; it is about creating a foundation for long-term economic independence,” he stated.
Viashima encouraged beneficiaries to leverage the training to develop viable businesses, thereby improving their personal and community welfare. He also commended facilitators for their dedication to this transformative program.
Mr. Waghbo Terkura Emmanuel, State Program Manager for Cash Transfer, reiterated the need for beneficiaries to utilise the funds responsibly.
“This money is not for frivolous spending but for creating opportunities that alleviate poverty,” he explained. “The ₦150,000 may seem small, but if used wisely, it can make a significant difference in improving lives and supporting families.”
He reminded participants of the importance of accountability, noting that proper identification and monitoring mechanisms are in place to ensure funds are used for their intended purposes.
BN-CARES State Coordinator, Mrs. Jacinta Tor Wombo, stressed that the grants are intended to support households and will be closely monitored.
“We will follow up to ensure you are using the funds to improve your living conditions. Independent verification teams will visit your businesses to assess the impact,” she warned. “This program is not just about disbursing money; it’s about ensuring positive outcomes.”
She urged participants to take the training seriously, as it included valuable lessons on resource management and business sustainability.
Hon. Mrs. Doris Erdoo Iyo, Director-General of Benue State Social Investment Programme Agency (B-SIPA), described the program as a significant milestone in the state’s economic empowerment efforts.
“This training provides you with essential skills to start and manage businesses, creating economic opportunities for others,” she said. “The NG-CARES program, in partnership with the World Bank and Federal Government, aims to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable groups, and this initiative exemplifies that mission.”
She encouraged beneficiaries to actively participate, apply their newfound skills, and take responsibility for their success.
Two beneficiaries expressed optimism about the program. Gugudu Hembadoon Jennifer, a prospective seamstress, shared her plans to invest in a sewing machine and establish her tailoring business.
“This training will help me manage my business and avoid wasteful spending,” she noted.
On his part, Peter Gule, a shoe and leatherworker with a disability, said the grant would enable him to purchase essential materials, improve his business operations, and contribute to the economy.
“This support will alleviate challenges in my business and help me generate profits and even pay taxes,” Gule said. “I’m looking forward to expanding my knowledge in business and finance management.”
