The Federal Government, in collaboration with the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), has launched the Grant for Vulnerable Groups (GVG), providing 100 vulnerable households in Abuja with N40,000 credit alerts to commence trading activities. Additionally, starter packs containing sewing and grinding machines were distributed to beneficiaries.
Program Launch in Abuja
Speaking at the program launch held in Abuja over the weekend, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, explained that the Grant for Vulnerable Groups is a national flagship initiative designed to assist vulnerable households in transitioning from survival to stability, and ultimately to sustained economic participation. He noted that the program will be implemented across all 774 Local Government Areas in the country, with the aim of expanding opportunities for vulnerable populations.
Dr. Doro, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, described the initiative as a reaffirmation of the government's responsibility to support the most vulnerable members of society. He emphasized that it reflects a shift from broad interventions to targeted, people-centered actions that directly address the needs of Nigerians who require assistance the most.
Objectives of the Initiative
The Minister stated that the primary objective of the initiative is to provide direct financial support and starter inputs to the poorest and most vulnerable households, enabling them to meet immediate needs and stabilize their livelihoods. This, in turn, will help them progress towards self-reliance. “This is not charity. It is strategic social investment in dignity, resilience, and national stability,” he said.
Assoc. Prof. Badamasi Lawal, the National Coordinator and CEO of NSIPA, noted that the launch reaffirms the government's commitment to ensuring that governance is felt in the lives of ordinary citizens. “The Grant for Vulnerable Groups is not just an intervention; it is a statement of purpose. Even the smallest enterprise can become a pathway to dignity. Support at the right moment can restore hope, and economic inclusion remains one of the strongest tools for reducing poverty and strengthening social stability,” he remarked.
Details of the Grant Package
The National Programme Manager for GVG, Hajia Aishat Alubankudi, expressed gratitude to the President for entrusting NSIPA with the implementation of the program. She emphasized that the GVG arrives at a time when many households are facing real economic pressures. “Poverty limits productivity, weakens communities, and slows national development. When people are given not just relief but opportunity, they can rebuild, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. That is the idea behind the Grant for Vulnerable Groups,” she said.
She urged beneficiaries to use the equipment and support for their intended purpose, stating, “The equipment provided is not for sale. It is a tool for your progress.” Alubankudi mentioned that the GVG package combines immediate input support, including starter packs and equipment, with credit alerts and accompanying guidance to help beneficiaries stabilize and grow their micro-enterprises. She further stated that NSIPA will monitor outcomes, measuring success by businesses sustained, incomes strengthened, families supported, and communities transformed, rather than by funds disbursed alone.
