Amid growing concerns over ineffective poverty alleviation strategies, the Delta State Government has raised a red flag against the rampant use of indiscriminate cash disbursements in the name of empowerment. At a forum held in Asaba, officials emphasized the importance of tying social protection initiatives to productivity, warning that unstructured cash handouts may do more harm than good.
The event, themed “Accelerating Inclusive Social Protection in Delta State: Building Stronger Systems for Poverty Reduction and Resilience”, was organized by the ActNaija Consortium in collaboration with the state’s Ministry of Economic Planning.
Speaking at the forum, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, made it clear that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is not interested in quick-fix solutions that fail to address the root causes of poverty.
He criticized unproductive empowerment models that focus on handing out money without building capacity. “Empowerment must be tied to productivity,” Aniagwu said firmly. “Indiscriminate cash disbursements could worsen inflation and undermine productivity.”
The Commissioner stressed that while social protection remains a key pillar of the administration’s agenda, it must be implemented with precision and accountability. He explained that the government has shifted focus toward sustainable, skill-based interventions that offer long-term benefits to beneficiaries.
Highlighting the approach of the current administration, Aniagwu pointed to programs such as the MORE Business Programme, the Rural Youth Skills Acquisition (RYSA) scheme, and the Widows Empowerment Programme—all designed to equip vulnerable groups with the skills and resources needed for economic independence.
Beyond these initiatives, Aniagwu said infrastructure development plays a major role in the state’s strategy. “We are constructing rural access roads to connect farming communities with markets,” he explained, noting that indigenous contractors are being prioritized to stimulate local economies and create employment.
He also condemned a broader culture of political patronage in which individuals are rewarded with salaries without contributing meaningful work. “Such practices only discourage genuine industry,” Aniagwu warned.
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He applauded the collaboration between stakeholders like the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, and social protection advocate Rev. David Ugolo, for their commitment to inclusive development.
Reaffirming Governor Oborevwori’s stance, Aniagwu said: “The governor has made it clear that poverty is no respecter of political affiliation. This is why we involve traditional institutions, religious leaders, town unions, youth and women’s groups in the implementation process, to ensure that interventions reach the vulnerable without bias.”
He urged participants not to let the forum become just another “talk shop.” Instead, he expressed hope that the event would yield concrete strategies to fortify Delta State’s social protection systems and uplift the most disadvantaged.
“Let us support a vision that promotes resilience, self-reliance, and dignity of labour,” Aniagwu urged.
