Emmanuel OchayiThe Nigerian government has unveiled its plans to overhaul the N-Power program, with the goal of providing employment opportunities to five million young Nigerians within the next five years.
This restructuring initiative is spearheaded by Akindele Egbuwalo, the National Programme Manager of N-Power, who promised a revitalized approach to empowering the nation’s youth.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe announcement of the indefinite suspension of N-Program was disclosed by Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation last week. She cited irregularities within the scheme and the necessity for a comprehensive investigation into fund allocation since the program’s inception.
READ ALSO: Nigerian Govt Suspends N-Power Indefinitely Over Irregularities
Edu expressed the government’s commitment to thorough restructuring and expansion while addressing issues like beneficiaries claiming salaries despite not actively participating in the program.
Egbuwalo, addressing the nation, urged Nigerians to grasp the necessity behind the program’s temporary suspension and subsequent revamp. He emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring trust in this critical initiative, stating, “This restructuring and transformation will also birth an expanded program to reach beneficiaries aged 18-40, with a target of 5 million beneficiaries in 5 years, at a pace of 1 million per year under the graduate and non-graduate streams.”
Egbuwalo revealed that it would encompass an array of new programs spanning education, healthcare, construction, agriculture, technology, fashion, entertainment, and various other sectors focused on skill acquisition and employment. This multifaceted approach aims to create a diverse range of opportunities for Nigerian youth.
The suspension of the N-Power program was necessitated by the discovery of irregularities, prompting a detailed inquiry into its operations over the past year. Egbuwalo emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating, “It shall no longer be business as usual as we make concerted efforts to put the nation on the right footing, ensuring that no one directly or indirectly unleashes suffering on Nigerians.”
Highlighting some of the issues uncovered, he added, “Recently, we discovered instances of program beneficiaries whose participation has lapsed since 2022 but have remained on and continue to expect payments from the government. In addition, some beneficiaries must honor their obligation to the program. They do not report to their places of primary assignments as required but still receive monthly payments.”
However, Egbuwalo reassured beneficiaries with legitimate claims that the federal government would address their concerns promptly and honor all valid outstanding obligations once the verification exercise is completed. This commitment underscores the government’s determination to rectify past shortcomings.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
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