February 13, (THEWILL) — The Federal Government’s proposed ₦260 billion allocation for humanitarian interventions in the 2025 fiscal year may be insufficient to meet its ambitious target of supporting 15 million vulnerable households across the country.
Analysts and development experts have raised concerns that the budgeted amount, when distributed across the targeted beneficiaries, may not provide meaningful relief amid rising inflation, food insecurity, and economic hardship. With millions of Nigerians grappling with the high cost of living, stakeholders argue that the allocation does not align with the scale of humanitarian needs nationwide.
Breakdowns of the proposed spending indicate that resources will cover cash transfers, food assistance, and emergency support programmes. However, projections suggest that the average support per household could fall below expectations if the full 15 million households are to be reached within the fiscal year.
Civil society organisations have urged the government to either increase funding, improve targeting mechanisms, or strengthen partnerships with international donor agencies to bridge potential funding gaps. They also emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in the disbursement process to ensure that funds reach the most vulnerable populations.
Government officials, on their part, maintain that the ₦260 billion allocation reflects current fiscal realities and competing national priorities. They note that additional funding sources may be explored depending on revenue performance and evolving humanitarian needs.
As 2025 approaches, the effectiveness of the humanitarian budget will likely depend not only on the size of the allocation but also on efficient implementation, monitoring, and collaboration among relevant agencies.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
