Governor Otti Flags Off EU-Funded Social Protection Project, Inaugurates State Council

….Governor Pledges to Tackle Poverty Holistically, Partners UNICEF, ILO to Strengthen Safety Nets for Vulnerable Groups

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has formally launched the Support for Sustainable and Innovative Social Protection Systems in Nigeria, an EU-funded initiative aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable groups across the state.

The program was unveiled at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Umuahia, where the Governor also inaugurated the Abia State Social Protection Council, chaired by Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, with members drawn from key MDAs, civil society groups, and religious organizations.

Delivering a keynote address titled “Victory Through Partnership”, Governor Otti commended the European Union for its commitment to social and economic development in Nigeria and Abia State.

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“This event sends a strong message to the world that Abia is committed to partnering with multinational development institutions to achieve aspirations that protect and restore the dignity of the human person,” Otti said.

He applauded the EU’s interventions in health, education, environment, and energy, noting that its large-scale support had improved the lives of tens of thousands of families. The Governor also praised EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, for choosing Abia as one of four pilot states for the €13 million project.

Governor Otti reiterated that his administration does not view poverty and social deprivation as isolated issues, highlighting the creation of the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, the Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, and the Senior Citizens Centre as part of the government’s commitment to sustainable social protection.

EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot said the project, implemented in collaboration with UNICEF and the International Labour Organization (ILO), will strengthen Nigeria’s social protection system, expand coverage for the most vulnerable, and ensure no one is left behind.

UNICEF Chief of Field Services, Judith Leveillee, described the project as a springboard that will help children and vulnerable persons rise out of poverty and thrive.

ILO Country Director for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, Dr. Vanessa Lerato Phala-Moyo, stated that the initiative aligns with Governor Otti’s vision for a “New Abia” and with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Felix, said the 36-month project would expand and update the state’s social register to capture more poor and vulnerable households.

Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Anosike, expressed gratitude to the EU delegation, saying their visit strengthened Abia’s partnership with international development agencies and would help deliver impactful programs for the people.