The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has disclosed that more than 10 million vulnerable Nigerians who benefited from the N75,000 conditional cash transfer programme do not have access to mobile phones. These individuals also lack access to social media and do not own television sets. Yilwatda made this statement while responding to questions from journalists in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The APC chairman highlighted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had implemented several projects and programmes, including road infrastructure, student loans, and humanitarian interventions such as the conditional cash transfer programme. This programme was funded from the gains of fuel subsidy removal and provided N75,000 to over 10 million vulnerable Nigerians through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
Yilwatda emphasized that the beneficiaries of the cash transfer programme are poor and vulnerable, and therefore, do not have the means to engage in online discussions or access information through social media. He noted that they are not aware of the ongoing discussions and debates, unlike those who have access to these platforms.
The APC chairman also highlighted the government's ongoing infrastructure projects across the country. He mentioned that road construction is underway, and workers on site are being paid. These projects are part of the government's efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians.
The APC National Executive Council (NEC) recently held a three-day retreat in Maiduguri, where they discussed several national and party-related issues. During the retreat, the NEC adopted resolutions, including extending condolences to the people of Niger state over the loss of 37 miners.
The NEC also reviewed the party's affairs at various levels, from national leadership to state, local government, ward, and polling-unit levels. After the review, the party affirmed that it is strong and prepared for the 2027 general election. The NEC passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Furthermore, the NEC resolved to take the lead in the party's campaign and communication efforts by highlighting the achievements of the Tinubu administration across the country. The party also encouraged state chapters to constitute reconciliation committees where necessary to ensure that the party consolidates its gains and sustains its performance in future elections.
Key points
- Over 10 million vulnerable Nigerians lack access to social media and mobile phones.
- The APC NEC adopted resolutions on national and party-related issues.
- The party affirmed its strength and preparedness for the 2027 general election.
