National chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has stated that over 10 million beneficiaries of the Federal Government's conditional cash transfer programme do not have a presence on social media. This assertion was made during a press briefing following a three-day retreat of the APC National Executive Council in Maiduguri, Borno State. According to Yilwatda, these individuals are largely poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
The APC chairman highlighted that many beneficiaries of the programme lack basic necessities such as phones, television, or access to social media. This makes it challenging for them to share their experiences or defend the government's programmes in public discussions. Yilwatda emphasized that despite being directly impacted by these interventions, they are unable to publicly communicate their experiences.
The conditional cash transfer programme, which falls under the ministry of humanitarian affairs and poverty reduction, has disbursed 75,000 naira to over 10 million Nigerians nationwide. Yilwatda noted that the Tinubu administration funded this programme using savings generated from the removal of the petrol subsidy. This move is part of the administration's broader efforts to alleviate poverty and support vulnerable populations.
In addition to the cash transfer programme, Yilwatda cited other interventions by the administration, including road construction and student loans. He mentioned that road construction projects are ongoing across the country, with workers on site receiving payments. These initiatives are being highlighted by the ruling party as it prepares for the 2027 general election.
The APC chairman's comments underscore the challenges faced by beneficiaries of government programmes in amplifying their voices in public discourse. Despite their significant numbers, their lack of access to social media and other communication platforms limits their ability to share their stories or defend the programmes they benefit from.
Yilwatda's statements come at a time when the administration is seeking to showcase its economic and social intervention programmes. By highlighting these initiatives, the government aims to demonstrate its commitment to addressing poverty and supporting vulnerable populations. The APC is using these successes as part of its campaign strategy ahead of the 2027 general election.
The issue of limited access to social media among beneficiaries of government programmes raises questions about the inclusivity and reach of these initiatives. As the government continues to implement and expand its social and economic programmes, it faces the challenge of ensuring that all beneficiaries, particularly those in remote or disadvantaged areas, have a voice and can participate in public discussions.
Key points
- APC chair Nentawe Yilwatda says over 10 million beneficiaries of Nigeria's conditional cash transfer programme lack access to social media.
