Cross River State Government has inaugurated the State Steering Committee for the implementation of Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) 2.0, following the state’s strong performance under the first phase of the Federal Government-World Bank intervention.
Inaugurating the committee, Governor Otu charged members to build on the gains recorded under the first phase and ensure effective implementation of NG-CARES 2.0 in the overall interest of Cross River citizens.
Represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, the Governor said the programme was designed to strengthen existing social safety nets, provide livelihood support and improve agricultural value chains, among other interventions aimed at strengthening the economic resilience and wellbeing of vulnerable citizens.
He commended the State NG-CARES coordinating team for its performance under the first phase and assured the newly inaugurated committee of the state government’s continued support to enable it deliver on its mandate.
Otu said the choice of experienced and competent individuals for the committee reflected the administration’s commitment to effective management and successful implementation of NG-CARES 2.0 in the state.
He urged members to approach their responsibilities with diligence, accountability and a strong sense of service, particularly by ensuring that programme benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Commissioner for Finance and Chairman, Dr. Michael Odere, thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed in the members and pledged prudent management of resources in strict compliance with NG-CARES objectives and guidelines.
Odere also assured that the committee would uphold transparency and accountability while working to deliver effectively on its mandate and make the state proud.
State NG-CARES Coordinator and Secretary of the new committee, Chief Henry Egbelo, disclosed that Cross River ranked second nationally and first in the South-South under NG-CARES 1.0, recording ₦49.43 billion in total earnings and ₦32.52 billion in reimbursements.
Egbelo gave the figures on Tuesday at Government House, Calabar, during the inauguration of the State CARES Steering Committee by Governor Bassey Edet Otu, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey.
He said the first phase supported vulnerable households through social protection interventions, while vulnerable youths and street sweepers were engaged under the Labour-Intensive Public Works component of the programme.
According to him, farmers across major value chains also benefited through FADAMA, while the Community and Social Development Agency implemented community infrastructure projects and eligible micro and small enterprises received grants.
Egbelo thanked the state government for its support and the enabling environment that contributed to the successful implementation of NG-CARES 1.0, saying the achievements demonstrated Cross River’s capacity to deliver development interventions targeted at improving livelihoods and strengthening economic resilience.
By Ukongikwen Adie
