National retreat of NG-CARES

It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to Katsina State (the home of Heritage, Peace, and Hospitality) for the National Retreat of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme.

We are honoured to host this important gathering, which brings together lawmakers, programme managers, and other critical stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond. Your presence here today underscores our collective commitment to strengthening the social protection framework of our Nation and fostering inclusive, sustainable development for all Nigerians.

As we have gathered here today to discuss the theme "Building a Sustainable NG-CARES Programme - The Role of the National Assembly," we must explore the critical role the National Assembly plays in ensuring the long-term success of this vital initiative.

As we engage in deliberations around the theme: “Building a Sustainable NG-CARES Programme – The Role of the National Assembly,” We must reflect on the instrumental role the National Assembly plays not just in legislative oversight, but in shaping policy direction, mobilizing resources, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of programmes that impact the livelihood of millions.

Here in Katsina State, we have taken deliberate and strategic steps to prioritize the welfare of our people, especially the most vulnerable. Through the KT-CARES programme, we have made measurable progress in improving livelihoods, empowering communities, and enhancing resilience.

With an investment of over 100 billion naira in social protection, our administration has implemented impactful interventions across the three core Result Areas—Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), Fadama, and the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA).

From Dankama in the furthest northern part of our State to Damari in the south, Dansabau from the west, Babban Mutum to the east, the NG-CARES programme has touched lives, rejuvenated rural economies, and reaffirmed the State's commitment to social protection and development.

Through this programme, vulnerable households have received critical support, access to food, potable water, basic healthcare, education, and business grants. These efforts have not only alleviated poverty but have also sown the seeds of economic self-reliance across many of our communities.

The NG-CARES program has played a crucial role in providing support to vulnerable populations across Nigeria. However, to ensure its sustainability, we must focus on key areas where the National Assembly can make a significant impact.

Legislative support is crucial! The National Assembly can provide the necessary legislative backing to ensure the programme's continuity and funding by enacting laws and policies that support the NG-CARES programme. This will provide a solid foundation for its sustainability.

I believe a robust policy framework will enable the programme to operate effectively and efficiently. The National Assembly can work closely with government agencies and stakeholders to develop policies that guide the programme's implementation and ensure its impact.

The National Assembly can play a crucial role in overseeing the programme’s implementation, ensuring transparency and accountability. By conducting regular oversight visits and public hearings on the programme's progress, the National Assembly can identify areas for improvement and ensure that the programme meets its objectives.

The role of the National Assembly would undoubtedly enhance the design, elevate the impact, and effectiveness of the NG-CARES programme by providing a more robust implementation framework to support more vulnerable populations and promote economic resilience.

As we begin this retreat, I encourage all participants to engage openly, share insights, and bring innovative ideas to the table. The challenges we face are not insurmountable. With unity of purpose, informed dialogue, and strategic action, we can build a more resilient and inclusive Nigeria.

It is my honour and privilege to declare the NG-CARES National Retreat open.

I wish you all a productive and impactful retreat and look forward to the actionable resolutions that will emerge from your deliberations.

God bless Katsina State,

God bless the CARES programme,

and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Thanks you.