The federal government has pledged to strengthen institutions to combat poverty and humanitarian crises in Nigeria.

Abel Enitan, the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, made this statement at the 2024 International Poverty Eradication Day event in Abuja on Thursday.

“We prioritise vocational training, job creation, and local government autonomy to enhance governance and socio-economic development.

“Increased investment in key sectors such as oil and gas, telecommunications, housing, and energy will improve service delivery and lift millions out of poverty,” said Mr Enitan.

The event, organised in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Humanitarian Affairs and Solidarity Empowerment Club (SEC), highlighted the need for collective action to address poverty.

The event is themed “Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment, Acting Together for Peaceful, Inclusive Society.”

Chukwuemeka Ekezie, SEC’s founder, emphasised that energy was crucial in eradicating poverty.

Mr Ekezie, represented by Precious Cheche, the national secretary, said energy is key to eradicating poverty and other humanitarian crises in the country.

”We must mobilise our resources, expertise, and passion to address the systemic issues that perpetuate poverty. Every effort counts-every partnership strengthens our collective resolve.

“No single organisation can tackle this challenge alone; we must come together in solidarity and mobilise resources to address systemic issues perpetuating poverty,” Mr Ekezie said.

The event featured the presentation of certificates to 30 beneficiaries of skills acquisition programmes, including catering, makeup, CCTV installations, and solar power.

Beneficiaries thanked the organisers, citing improved prospects and fulfilled lifelong dreams. 

(NAN)