The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has announced that it has recovered funds that were withheld by a consultant for several months from the N-Power program, a social investment scheme that provides skills and employment opportunities for young Nigerians.
The National Program Manager of N-Power, Mr Akindele, disclosed this after a meeting with representatives of the N-Power beneficiaries.
He said that the funds were recovered on Monday and that payment for N-Power Beneficiaries Batch C who have been owed for eight months will commence soon.
He also revealed that the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, has been working tirelessly to address the irregularities and challenges that have plagued the program and other social investment programs in the country.
He said that the minister is committed to delivering the Renewed Hope Mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has promised to eradicate poverty and expand the N-Power program to reach five million young Nigerians.
He explained that some of the irregularities that the minister is resolving include the non-payment of monthly allowances to many beneficiaries, the expiration of the contract of the consultant managing the enrollment and payment system, and the lack of transparency and accountability in the program.
He assured the beneficiaries that the ministry is working to create a good foundation for the Renewed Hope N-Power program, which will be more efficient, effective and inclusive.
He appealed to young Nigerians to be patient and supportive of the restructuring process, as it is in their best interest and will lead to more opportunities and benefits for them.
He said that President Tinubu is determined to fulfill his promise of eradicating poverty and empowering young Nigerians through the N-Power program and other social investment programs.
