Federal Government Reveals Transfer of ₦421 Billion to Nigerian Residents
In a commendable move towards poverty reduction and women's empowerment, the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program in Nigeria, under the leadership of Minister Tanko Sununu, has seen significant progress. As of 2025, over ₦421 billion has been disbursed to Nigerians, providing financial support to vulnerable households[1][4].
One of the notable examples of this program's impact is the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Programme in Akwa Ibom State. This initiative, amounting to ₦2.16 billion, benefits 28,834 individuals across 31 local government areas, with a special focus on empowering women and promoting economic stability in rural communities[2][5].
The CCT program serves as a stepping stone towards self-reliance and poverty eradication by offering cash transfers that help families meet basic needs and improve living conditions[2]. However, the specific eligibility criteria under Minister Tanko Sununu's tenure have not been detailed in the available sources. Generally, such programs target poor or vulnerable households, women and families in rural communities, and beneficiaries who agree to specific conditions such as ensuring children’s school attendance or participation in health services.
To ensure the funds are disbursed directly and transparently, the National Conditional Cash Transfer Officer (NCTO) will now directly deposit funds into the accounts of beneficiaries once data is traceable, transparent, and accountable[6]. The Ministry is committed to effectively reaching more vulnerable populations through improved data systems and increased oversight[7].
To be eligible for the transfer, registration in the National Social Register is required, as stated by Tanko Sununu. The National Social Register currently includes over 18.9 million households[8]. The ministry is also working to address issues related to the lack of digital identities in the CCT program[9].
A new register, the Rapid Response Register, is used to extract the most vulnerable groups. To be eligible for this register, certain criteria must be fulfilled by the NASCO and the NIMSI, as stated by Tanko Sununu. The World Bank is also involved in the eligibility process for the Rapid Response Register[10].
Minister Tanko Sununu assured Nigerians that the ministry is dedicated to reaching more vulnerable populations with the CCT program and is focused on improving data systems for the program to ensure accountability and transparency[11]. The initial delays in the CCT program were due to a lack of digital identities among recipients, but the ministry is working to address these concerns[12].
The CCT program in Nigeria complements other initiatives like N-Power, which provides job training and monthly stipends, creating an integrated approach to poverty reduction[4]. Some CCT programs, including initiatives by organizations like New Incentives, focus on specific conditions like increasing infant vaccination rates and expanding coverage in local government areas across Nigeria, reflecting ongoing scaling efforts[3].
In summary, the Nigerian Conditional Cash Transfer program under Minister Tanko Sununu has made substantial financial disbursements aimed at poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment, with programs launched in states such as Akwa Ibom benefiting tens of thousands of vulnerable Nigerians. Exact eligibility conditions are generally based on socioeconomic vulnerability and compliance with program-specific requirements, though detailed criteria from official sources are not currently available.
[1] Source: [Link to Source 1] [2] Source: [Link to Source 2] [3] Source: [Link to Source 3] [4] Source: [Link to Source 4] [5] Source: [Link to Source 5] [6] Source: [Link to Source 6] [7] Source: [Link to Source 7] [8] Source: [Link to Source 8] [9] Source: [Link to Source 9] [10] Source: [Link to Source 10] [11] Source: [Link to Source 11] [12] Source: [Link to Source 12]
In a bid to support businesses and improve the living conditions of Nigerians, the CCT program under Minister Tanko Sununu's leadership is also encouraging entrepreneurship, especially among women in rural communities, as a means to ensure long-term financial stability [Naija, Nigeria]. With the Rapid Response Register, the ministry aims to reach more vulnerable populations by extracting the most needy, using criteria set by the NASCO and NIMSI, and with assistance from the World Bank [Rapid Response Register]. Additionally, the CCT program’s focus on school attendance and health services can potentially lead to increased academic performance and healthier citizens, ultimately contributing to a more productive workforce and a prosperous nation [WAEC, finance, business].
