By Ibrahim Ibrahim
Beneficiaries of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Results Area II in Jigawa State have signed a utilisation agreement to ensure the proper application of the support provided under the initiative.
Speaking during the distribution of incubators to beneficiaries in Kafin Hausa Local Government Area, the State FADAMA CARES Coordinator, Dr Aliyu Inuwa, underscored the critical importance of the agreement in achieving the intervention’s objectives.
Dr Inuwa expressed concerns over the historical misuse of government interventions, stressing the need for accountability and responsible utilisation of resources.
“This agreement serves as a binding commitment between the government and the beneficiaries. It is designed to ensure that the resources provided are utilised effectively to achieve economic recovery and sustainability,” he stated.
The Coordinator revealed that the NG-CARES Results Area II initiative has supported over 47,790 individuals in Jigawa State in their recovery from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have provided support to 47,790 beneficiaries, which includes: 3,360 individuals in rice farming, 2,210 in maize farming, 4,330 in millet cultivation, 3,650 in sorghum production, and 1,660 in poultry farming.
“Additionally, we have assisted 5,700 goat farmers, 1,330 sheep farmers, 710 individuals with processing machines, 4,210 with water pumps, 100 with fingerlings, 1,280 with local chicks, 100 with apiculture equipment, 550 with spaghetti-making machines, 170 with drilling machines, 270 with incubators, 16,200 with food items, and 270 with personal protective equipment,” he detailed.
Dr Inuwa emphasised that strict monitoring mechanisms are in place to ensure adherence to the utilisation agreement, warning that any violations would attract legal consequences.
“This initiative is not solely about recovery but also about fostering sustainable livelihoods for our people. Beneficiaries must adhere to the guidelines to ensure the success of this programme,” he concluded.
The NG-CARES initiative continues to play a pivotal role in mitigating the economic fallout from the pandemic, while simultaneously creating opportunities for long-term economic growth and development in Jigawa State.
