The Federal Government has commenced a monthly cash transfer programme offering ₦50,000 to eligible vulnerable households under the National Emergency Relief and Stabilisation Intervention (NERSI).
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Bernard Doro, announced the initiative in a statement, describing it as a presidential intervention designed to provide immediate financial support to Nigerians facing rising living costs.
Doro said the programme was introduced against the backdrop of global food inflation and increasing prices of essential goods, which continue to place pressure on household finances.
Under the intervention, eligible beneficiaries will receive ₦50,000 monthly to help meet basic needs and reduce the financial burden on their households.
The minister explained that the payment arrangement would be reviewed periodically in response to changes in the cost of living. He added that beneficiaries would be informed directly before any adjustment to the amount.
According to the ministry, licensed digital financial service providers are being engaged to ensure that payments are processed securely, promptly and transparently.
Beneficiaries are expected to receive text messages from approved service providers seeking their consent to participate in the payment process.
Doro warned Nigerians to be cautious of fraudsters seeking to exploit the programme, stressing that eligible beneficiaries were not required to submit applications, pay fees or register through agents.
He advised anyone uncertain about messages received in connection with the intervention to contact the official NERSI helpline on 0700-022-2222.
The ministry said the initiative was aimed at providing direct financial relief to vulnerable Nigerians amid continuing economic pressures.
Deborah Adeyefa
