As part of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s commitment to social protection and poverty alleviation, the Kogi State Operations Coordinating Unit (KOGI-SOCU) of the National Social Register (NSR) has commenced a three-day workshop in Lokoja.
The training, which began on Monday, March 10, 2025, focuses on integrating the NSR with the National Identification Number (NIN) and equipping Local Government Desk Officers and Field Enumerators from all 21 LGAs with the necessary skills to execute the process effectively.
The Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Idris, FCA, represented by the Special Adviser for Finance, Hon. Idris Ozi Shaib, FCA, welcomed dignitaries and participants to the program.
In his address, the Commissioner emphasized the significance of the initiative and its benefits to the people of the state while reaffirming the Ododo administration’s commitment to lifting citizens, especially youths and women, out of poverty and vulnerability. He stated that this effort would help curb social vices such as kidnapping, robbery, and political thuggery by creating economic opportunities.
Furthermore, he noted that the tripartite partnership between the State Government, the Federal Government, and the World Bank in implementing Social Safety Net (SSN) programs is progressing steadily. He assured stakeholders that Kogi State is committed to leveraging all available programs from the World Bank and other development partners to achieve poverty reduction, aligning with the 32-Year Kogi State Development Plan.
The Commissioner urged all participants to collaborate for the successful implementation of the initiative, ensuring a more prosperous and resilient society for future generations.
Keynote addresses were delivered by the Kogi SOCU Coordinator, the Regional Director of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Mrs. Mary Makama, the Team Leader of NASSCO, Malam Dauda, and the Director General of the Kogi Social Intervention Program Agency, Hajia Aishat Omade.
The highlight of the event was the official declaration of the workshop, leading to technical and training sessions.
Princess Funsho Sumanu
Public Relations officer
Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning
