The North Central Advocacy Coalition (NCAC) has urged the federal government to reinstate the N-Power programme suspended indefinitely.

Lawal Mijinyawa, coordinator of NCAC in Niger, made the call while addressing a news conference in Minna.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, on October 7, announced an indefinite suspension of the N-Power programme.

The N-Power programme was established by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari to address youth unemployment as beneficiaries were paid an N30,000 monthly stipend.

Mr Mijinyawa said the suspension of N-Power had left beneficiaries of the scheme vulnerable, resulting in a negative impact.

“Particularly, the northern region stands to be mostly affected negatively as the programme has helped to reduce unemployment and poverty levels across the region. N-Power had been a means of livelihood for many youths because it provided job opportunities for them and empowered them to become self-reliant to contribute to the economy,” Mr Mijinyawa said.

He urged the federal government to reverse its decision on suspension of the scheme, adding that the suspension would lead to a surge in unemployment and an increase in criminal activities.

According to Mr Mijinyawa, the federal government should rethink and reconsider its action on suspending the N-Power programme, which has positively impacted youths’ lives.

He said NCAC condemned the federal government’s decision on the N-power scheme and demanded that the suspension be reversed in the interest of many vulnerable citizens.

Mr Mijinyawa called for the minister’s removal from her position for being responsible for the unpopular decision. 

(NAN)