The Federal Government has announced the indefinite suspension of the Npower program, a flagship initiative aimed at addressing youth unemployment and promoting social development.
The decision was made public by Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, during a TVC news program on Saturday.
Edu revealed that the suspension was prompted by a series of irregularities that have plagued the program, necessitating a thorough investigation into the utilization of funds since its inception.
She expressed concern over beneficiaries who are not fulfilling their obligations at their designated assignments while still expecting monthly stipends.
Some beneficiaries were even identified as having overstayed their eligibility, remaining on the program’s payroll despite being due to exit in 2022.
“We must go back to look into Npower and understand what the problems are, so we will basically suspend the program for now until we are done with a proper investigation into the utilization of funds in the Npower program,” Minister Edu stated.
The government’s goal is to ascertain the current number of active participants, the outstanding amounts owed to them, and the extent of the irregularities within the program.
Edu explained that there is a need for a comprehensive restructuring of Npower, which will include expansion and enhanced oversight.
Edu added, “About 80 percent of them are not working yet they are claiming salaries.”
The Npower Program was initiated under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a vital strategy to combat youth unemployment and foster social development.
However, the suspension comes as a stern response to ensure accountability and transparency in its implementation, ultimately safeguarding the program’s objectives for the benefit of Nigeria’s youth.