Delta Govt Pledges Not to Politicize Social Protection, Targets Vulnerable Communities

Delta State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to implementing social protection programmes totally insulated from political influence, with a clear mandate to directly impact the most vulnerable across communities.

This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, at a forum on social protection themed: “Accelerating Inclusive Social Protection in Delta State: Building Stronger Systems for Poverty Reduction and Resilience”, organized by the ActNaija Consortium in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Planning on Wednesday in Asaba.

Aniagwu commended stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, and renowned social protection advocate, Rev. David Ugolo, for their relentless efforts in championing poverty reduction and inclusiveness. 

He stressed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had directed that social interventions in the state must never be subjected to political manipulation.

“The Governor has made it clear that poverty is no respecter of political affiliation. This is why we involve traditional institutions, religious leaders, town unions, youth and women’s groups in the implementation process, to ensure that interventions reach the vulnerable without bias”, Aniagwu stated.

Beyond cash transfers, he explained that the government was investing in sustainable empowerment initiatives, notably the construction of rural access roads to connect farming communities with markets, adding that indigenous contractors were prioritized for such projects to boost local economies and create employment opportunities.

Highlighting the administration’s multi-pronged approach, Aniagwu listed the MORE Business Programme, Rural Youth Skills Acquisition (RYSA) scheme, and the Widows Empowerment Programme as key interventions designed to ease economic pressures and provide disadvantaged groups with lasting livelihoods.

He cautioned against unproductive empowerment models, stressing that indiscriminate cash disbursements could worsen inflation and undermine productivity. 

“Empowerment must be tied to productivity”, he insisted, noting that the Oborevwori administration’s model attached value to every intervention by supporting those engaged in enterprise while equipping new entrants with relevant skills.

Aniagwu also denounced a culture of political patronage where appointees received salaries without defined responsibilities, warning that such could only discourage genuine industry. 

He urged stakeholders to support the government’s vision of social protection that promotes resilience, self-reliance, and dignity of labour.

Expressing optimism, the Commissioner said the forum would not end as a mere “talk shop” but would provide concrete strategies to strengthen social protection systems and improve the wellbeing of Deltans.