From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
Dr. Hamidou Poufon, Chief of Social Policy at UNICEF Nigeria, has said that social protection policies and programmes must be designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability by decreasing people’s exposure to risks and enhancing their capacity to manage economic and social challenges.
He made this assertion during a two-day Social Protection Stakeholders Orientation held in Kaduna today.
Dr. Poufon explained that social protection consists of three main components:Social Assistance: Non-contributory programs that provide financial or in-kind support to individuals or households in need, Social Insurance: Contributory programs that offer benefits based on individuals’ previous contributions to insurance schemes and Labor Market Programs: Policies and programs aimed at enhancing employment opportunities, improving working conditions, and ensuring adequate labor protection.
He emphasized the importance of social protection in reducing poverty and vulnerability, especially in the face of challenges such as urbanization, globalization, climate change, forced displacement, natural disasters, and conflict.
Social protection, he stressed, can help individuals and households manage economic and social risks, promote productive employment and entrepreneurship, and support structural change.
Dr. Poufon discussed various financing options for social protection, including expanding social security contributions, reallocating public expenditures, increasing tax revenues, adopting a more accommodating macroeconomic framework, managing debt, and utilizing international aid and transfers.
A robust legal framework is essential for social protection, as it provides a rights-based approach and ensures social protection operates under the rule of law. Dr. Poufon highlighted that such a framework is crucial for making social protection programs inclusive, adaptable, sustainable, and resilient.
He also highlighted the challenges facing Nigeria’s social protection system, including low implementation of the National/State Social Protection Policy, underfunding, weak delivery systems, and a lack of coordination.
He emphasized the importance of a rights-based approach, increased funding, and enhanced coordination to ensure these programs are effective and sustainable.
By investing in social protection, Nigeria, he explains, can promote inclusive growth, reduce poverty, and enhance the well-being of its citizens.
Similarly, Mr. Garba Abdullahi from the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) program noted that PACE is a 48-month program funded by the UK International Development.
It aims to support coalitions in influencing the government to address climate and governance challenges affecting the poorest and most vulnerable populations.
Mr. Abdullahi explained that the PACE program is being implemented in Kaduna, Kano, and Jigawa in north-western Nigeria, with targeted strategic engagement at both federal and regional levels to drive change across all 36 states of Nigeria.
“It is with great honor and a deep sense of purpose that I extend my goodwill to all participants at this orientation session on the Social Protection Programme,” he stated.
The Social Protection Stakeholders Orientation marks a significant milestone in our collective commitment to building an inclusive, equitable, and resilient society.
He stressed that social protection is not just a policy objective; it is a moral imperative, reflecting our shared values of dignity, compassion, and solidarity with the most vulnerable members of our communities.
“This gathering of diverse stakeholders—government, civil society, development partners, private sector actors, and community representatives—demonstrates the power of collaboration.
“Only through such partnerships can we design and implement social protection systems that are comprehensive, sustainable, and responsive to genuine human needs.
“As we embark on this journey together, let us approach the task ahead with open minds, shared responsibility, and unwavering dedication.
“I am confident that the outcomes of this meeting will lay a strong foundation for impactful policies and practical solutions that will transform lives in Kaduna State. May this inaugural meeting be the beginning of meaningful dialogue, enduring partnerships, and measurable progress,” he concluded.
