The Katsina State Social Protection Forum has urged Governor Dikko Radda to increase investment in programmes that support the poor and vulnerable persons in the state.

The forum’s chairman, Abdulrahman Abdullahi, made the call on Wednesday at a news conference in Katsina.

Mr Abdullahi said the call was part of the forum’s recommendations for effective social protection programmes in Katsina.

Mr Abdullahi emphasised that the call was necessary to promote inclusive growth, reduce inequality, and build a more resilient society.

Mr Radda signed the Social Protection policy in 2023, aiming to reduce poverty levels in the state by 10 per cent by 2033.

“The forum is also calling on the governor to expedite the implementation of the policy, so as to address the increasing poverty level bedevilled the state,” Mr Abdullahi said.

He also appealed to the governor to expand the coverage of existing SP programmes to ensure they reach all those in need, including marginalised and vulnerable populations.

Mr Abdullahi also recommended that the government update the state Social Register to accommodate records of all poor and vulnerable people in the state.

The forum’s chairman also suggested that the governor should create a budget line targeting poor and vulnerable households in line with the Universal Child grant.

“These programmes not only provide a vital safety net for those in need but also contribute to economic stability, social cohesion, and sustainable development,” added Mr Abdullahi.

He called on all stakeholders, including the National Assembly members, to support and prioritise SP programmes within their communities.

The forum is a coalition of about 20 CSOs working on social protection in the state, and it is supported by the United Nations Children Funds (UNICEF).

Social protection programmes encompass a range of initiatives designed to safeguard individuals and families from poverty, inequality, and various risks such as unemployment, illness, disability, and old age.

(NAN)