Benue State Strengthens Social Protection System Through Partnership with EU, UNICEF, and ILO

The Benue State Government has restated its commitment to tackling poverty and expanding social protection coverage through a strategic collaboration with the European Union (EU), UNICEF, and the International Labour Organization (ILO). The partnership aims to scale up the National and State Social Registers (NSR/SSR) under the Supporting the Development of a Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria (SUSI) programme.

The stakeholder engagement, held at the Old Banquet Hall of the Government House, Makurdi, was convened by the Benue State Budget and Economic Planning Commission (BEPC). The meeting brought together ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), civil society organisations, and development partners to enhance coordination and deepen understanding of the ongoing expansion process.

Representing Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Deputy Governor, Barr. Sam Ode, reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to promoting inclusive development through data-driven social protection initiatives. He praised the EU, UNICEF, and ILO for their unwavering partnership and assured stakeholders of the State Government’s full support in ensuring the successful expansion of the social registers.

In his welcome address, Prof. J. Andohol, Director General of BEPC, highlighted the crucial role the social register plays in evidence-based planning and equitable distribution of social interventions to vulnerable populations.

A goodwill message from Dr. Aondoaseer Leonard-Angelo Viashima, Director General of the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD), emphasized the Bureau’s commitment to mobilizing international partnerships, attracting resources, and strengthening systems for inclusive and sustainable development.

UNICEF Social Policy Consultant, Dr. Victor Chima, also commended the State Government’s proactive approach and reiterated UNICEF’s continued technical support to ensure that the social register remains robust, inclusive, and sustainable.

Technical presentations during the event offered detailed insights into the expansion process. Key priorities include enhancing digital data systems, widening the coverage of vulnerable households, integrating the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) approach, and improving rapid response mechanisms during emergencies. The planned expansion targets the addition of 250,000 households—equivalent to one million individuals—with pilot activities set to commence in Agatu, Apa, Gwer East, Logo, Obi, Ohimini, and Tarka LGAs.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders and partners to work collectively towards strengthening Benue State’s social protection framework, ensuring that interventions remain inclusive, data-driven, and responsive to the needs of the poor and vulnerable.