The federal government, along with state governors, has introduced a new initiative called the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme.
This programme aims to direct the benefits of recent economic reforms to Nigeria’s 8,809 wards, with the goals of generating jobs, enhancing food security, and alleviating poverty.
The initiative was announced during Thursday’s National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
It aims to provide direct support to at least 1,000 economically active individuals in each ward to stimulate local economic activities.
After the meeting, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, informed State House reporters that President Bola Tinubu attended the NEC session and praised the governors for their collaboration.
Bagudu characterized the programme as a “historic next step” in the administration’s reform efforts.
“Having stabilized the macro-economy, the next phase is to drive development to the grassroots level so that we can stimulate economic activity across all 8,809 wards, generating employment, reducing poverty, enhancing food security, and reinforcing social protection,” Bagudu explained.
He noted that the initiative will be funded collaboratively by federal, state, and local governments, utilizing increased revenues from the federation account and aligning with other ongoing development projects.
Bagudu emphasized that the plan is rooted in chapter two of the constitution, which requires all levels of government to “utilize the nation’s resources and foster a dynamic, self-sufficient economy.”
He referred to the ward development initiative as “a federation project” and mentioned that the NEC has resolved to designate his ministry as the programme’s secretariat.
He also cited the latest IMF Article IV report on Nigeria, which commended Tinubu’s significant reforms—such as the removal of fuel subsidies, liberalization of the foreign exchange market, and improved revenue management—for enhancing economic stability and resilience.
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“Mr. President believes that to combat poverty and food insecurity, we must collaboratively invest in the creative potential of Nigerians in every ward. After achieving macroeconomic stability, this program is the logical next step,” Bagudu stated.
During his remarks, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma indicated that the council unanimously endorsed the ward development initiative, describing it as a means to ensure that the benefits of reforms reach the “ordinary citizen.”
“The country is generating more revenue now, and so are the subnational governments,” Uzodinma pointed out.
“The president has introduced a program that will expedite the impact of this additional revenue by ensuring it reaches the grassroots level.
This is how Nigerians will start to experience the Renewed Hope agenda in their daily lives.”
Gov. Uzodinma also mentioned that the NEC discussed environmental impact assessments for significant legacy projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road.
