The Kano House of Assembly has been lauded for passing the much-anticipated Social Protection Agency Bill.

The passage of the bill paved the way for establishing an agency to assist the most vulnerable groups in Kano.

The bill, which aims to establish a dedicated agency for social welfare programmes, received widespread support from residents who believe it would significantly improve the living standards of vulnerable groups in Kano.

While speaking to journalists, a community leader in Sauna Kawaji of Nasarawa LGA, Muhammadu Abdu, lauded the move as a step in the right direction.

“This bill will ensure that the most vulnerable among us, including the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities, receive much-needed support,” Mr Abdu said.

Similarly, Farida Halilu, a civil society activist, described the bill as a historic development that would positively impact poverty reduction efforts in the state.

“The agency, when established, will create targeted programmes that address the specific needs of disadvantaged groups,” she said.

Sadi Aminullah, a policy expert, commended the assembly’s commitment to enhancing social services.

He said that the bill, when signed into law, would go a long way in addressing the needs of marginalised groups such as the elderly, children, and people with disabilities.

“It is a much-needed initiative that will also help streamline the delivery of welfare programmes,” he said.

Aisha Dauda, an activist, also expressed delight, noting that the bill addresses key concerns such as transparency in allocating welfare resources.

“This is a positive development for the people of Kano, and we hope it will serve as a model for other states to follow,” she said.

The parliament passed the Kano State Social Protection Agency Bill 2025 on Tuesday after years of advocacy by UNICEF and other civil society groups who consistently urged the state government to strengthen its social protection policies.

Speaking on the bill, the majority leader, Lawan Hussaini, stated that, once assented to the social protection agency, a director-general with expertise in social services would lead it.

Mr Hussaini said it would also have a board of trustees comprising representatives from various ministries and partner organisations.

(NAN)