The Enugu State Government says it has supported over 500,000 individuals and more than 10,000 businesses through its EN-CARES programme since 2022.

The state Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Chris-Robert Ozongwu, disclosed this on Friday in Enugu during the unveiling of NG-CARES 2.0, titled, “Operation 2.0.”

Mr Ozongwu, who is also Chairman of the state CARES Steering Committee, described the programme as transformative, saying it had significantly improved livelihoods across communities.

He said over 217 community micro-projects had been completed, while thousands of farmers received inputs and equipment to boost productivity.

He stated, “We have seen communities light up, not just with solar-powered water systems, but with renewed hope.

“Farmers are harvesting more, earning more and feeding their families better, while small businesses have survived economic shocks.”

Mr Ozongwu said the achievements were not mere statistics, but reflected real improvements in the lives of the people, especially the poor and vulnerable.

He said the unveiling of NG-CARES 2.0 marked a new phase aimed at expanding the programme’s impact.

He noted that the phase would extend solar-powered water supply to over 100 communities and provide public toilets in 127 communities.

According to him, it will also provide agricultural inputs to over 8,000 farmers, with plans to reach an additional 12,000.

He added that a comprehensive social register covering over 250,000 households would be established to improve targeting of interventions.

Mr Ozongwu commended Governor Peter Mbah for his commitment to residents’ welfare, describing his leadership as result-oriented and people-focused.

He also appreciated the World Bank and other development partners for their continued support.

The commissioner commended implementing agencies, including Community and Social Development Agency, FADAMA, SME Development Agency, and the State Operation Coordinating Unit, for their roles in the programme’s success.

He urged stakeholders, traditional rulers, civil society groups and community leaders to sustain support for the programme’s second phase.

Mr Ozongwu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, saying no deserving person would be left behind as the state pursues sustainable prosperity. 

(NAN)