Wednesday, February 12, 2025
HomeHealthPlateau State Welcomes Verification Team for NG-CARES Program Progress Assessment

Plateau State Welcomes Verification Team for NG-CARES Program Progress Assessment

Plateau State recently hosted the Independent Verification Agents (IVA) as part of the ongoing Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) program. This World Bank-supported initiative aims to mitigate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through targeted interventions.

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During the visit, Mrs. Jane Dauda, team lead for the IVA, commended the NG-CARES team in Plateau State for their dedication and effective implementation of the program. She noted their ability to address gaps and implement corrective measures, ensuring the program’s success in driving economic recovery in the state.

Dr. Haggai Gutap, the technical administrative head of NG-CARES in Plateau State, provided an update on the program’s progress, emphasizing its impact on food security, small business recovery, and social protection.

The NG-CARES program, launched by the World Bank, focuses on cushioning the effects of the pandemic through three core components:

  1. Food Security: Support for farmers through enhanced access to farmlands and improved agricultural production.
  2. Small Business Recovery: Financial assistance and grants to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to stimulate economic activity.
  3. Social Protection: Cash transfers and grants to vulnerable households to ensure basic consumption needs are met.

Dr. Gutap highlighted Plateau State’s outstanding performance in the previous three IVA assessments, earning over $34 million (₦26 billion) in reimbursements, which placed the state as the third-best performer in Nigeria.

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The ongoing fourth IVA assessment is expected to further highlight the state’s accomplishments. Significant milestones achieved during this phase include:

  • Support for SMEs: Over 7,000 small businesses received grants and assistance to aid recovery and growth.
  • Infrastructure Development: Completion of 41 fadama roads and construction of bridges and culverts, improving access to farmlands and boosting agricultural productivity.
  • Economic Growth: Grants provided to revitalize small businesses, driving employment and economic stability.

Dr. Gutap expressed optimism that the state’s continued efforts would yield even greater reimbursements and recognition, further enhancing food security, infrastructure, and job creation.

As NG-CARES 1.0 nears completion, plans are underway to transition to NG-CARES 2.0, which aims to build a more resilient economy. Key objectives of the next phase include:

  • Developing sustainable solutions for food security, SME growth, and economic stability.
  • Enhancing preparedness for crises such as floods, conflicts, and other disasters.
  • Moving from emergency interventions to long-term, inclusive strategies that benefit a broader population.

Dr. Gutap emphasized the importance of proactive planning and strategic execution in NG-CARES 2.0 to ensure Plateau State remains resilient in the face of future challenges while fostering sustainable development.

The NG-CARES program continues to showcase the transformative impact of targeted, result-based interventions. Plateau State’s achievements highlight the importance of effective implementation, accountability, and collaboration among stakeholders.

As the state awaits the results of the fourth IVA, there is optimism that Plateau will continue to set an example for resilience and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.

Plateau State remains at the forefront of driving economic recovery and development in the country.

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