Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has launched a financial empowerment programme, flagging off the distribution of debit cards to beneficiaries of the World Bank-financed Cash Transfer Scheme.
The initiative, which aims to uplift the most vulnerable residents of Zamfara, was officially launched at the Tsafe Local Government Secretariat, according to a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, on Tuesday.
The programme is designed to provide financial support of N75,000 to each of 448,141 beneficiaries across the state.
Governor Lawal emphasised the significance of the initiative, stating, “This ceremony represents a significant moment in my commitment to empowering the most vulnerable people of Zamfara.”
He noted that 279,534 beneficiaries have already met the minimum requirements to receive the N75,000 cash transfer, with the remaining beneficiaries to be processed and included as soon as they are cleared.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Lawal urged them to use the funds wisely, beyond meeting immediate domestic needs.
“This empowerment aims to enable you to invest in your future, support yourselves and your families, and contribute to the growth of our local and national economy,” he said. He encouraged recipients to explore entrepreneurial opportunities and strive for self-reliance.
The debit card initiative, facilitated through the Conditional Cash Transfer programme, is a collaborative effort involving the Federal Government, the National Cash Transfer Office, and other key stakeholders.
Lawal expressed gratitude for their dedication and contributions, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to partnering with individuals and organisations for the development of Zamfara State.
“It is my honour to flag off the distribution and activation of the debit cards to facilitate the Conditional Cash Transfer payments to the deserving beneficiaries,” Lawal declared, marking the official launch of the programme.
The initiative is expected to foster economic growth and improve the livelihoods of thousands of Zamfara residents.
