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Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State asserts that his administration will not distribute handouts to alleviate poverty but will instead foster an environment where individuals can thrive.
Makinde shared this viewpoint on Tuesday during a media discussion with select journalists.
“In Oyo State, we believe that providing handouts is not the solution. Our focus is on creating a supportive environment that allows people to seize opportunities and lift themselves out of poverty.
“I was involved in a project where the entire cinema was filled for the Nigeria LNG initiative, providing decent housing for fishermen and others. It took less than five years for that area to devolve into a shanty town.
“I have debated with the World Bank regarding their preference for conditional cash transfers, which involve giving people money. I countered that approach by saying, 'No.' Instead, we chose to subsidize the productive efforts of our citizens. While many state governments were distributing palliatives and food during economic downturns, we took a different route.
“What we implemented here was the Safer Programme, which stands for Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery. One component of our Safer Programme focused on the transportation sector and a transport company that serves nearly 20,000 people daily. We decided that for the vulnerable groups among them—students, the elderly, and those with disabilities—they would pay a discounted fare, half the normal price.
“Thus, we subsidize their transportation with 100 million naira each month. However, this 100 million naira is aimed at enhancing productivity. They are not simply riding the bus for a cheaper fare; they are traveling to places that are significant to them and are likely to yield productive outcomes,” he stated.
FAQs
What is Governor Makinde's approach to poverty alleviation?
Governor Makinde's approach focuses on creating a conducive environment for individuals to thrive instead of providing handouts. He emphasizes the importance of opportunities and productivity.
What is the Safer Programme?
The Safer Programme, which stands for Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery, aims to support productivity and transportation for vulnerable groups. It provides subsidies for transportation to ensure individuals can access opportunities.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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