Poverty

It’s profoundly troubling that in a country rich in oil resources, an alarming 63% of our population endures extreme poverty, lacking basic needs, while a small fraction, just 5%, controls 90% of the nation’s wealth. Such stark inequality is intolerable, and my administration is dedicated to changing this story. We plan to implement a wide range of targeted strategies aimed at eradicating poverty and promoting equal opportunities for all Nigerians. Below are some of the primary measures we intend to take:

Appoint an Anti-Poverty Czar: Upon taking office, I will immediately designate an Anti-Poverty Czar who will be tasked with the mission of reducing poverty across the nation, with special attention on the elevated poverty levels in the Northern states. This Czar will report direct to me.

Establish Federal Welfare System: On my first day in office, I will initiate a federal welfare initiative aimed at diminishing poverty among our nation’s elderly, disabled, and impoverished citizens. This program will encompass a basic supplemental income, provision of food assistance, access to affordable housing options, and comprehensive healthcare coverage at no cost. Of course, this program will be means-tested—only those within certain low household income will qualify.

Implement Citizen’s Dividend: Recognizing that every Nigerian inherently holds a share in the nation’s natural resources, my administration will designate 10% of the yearly oil profits to the Citizen’s Dividend Payout Program. This initiative will provide monthly dividends to households, the value of which will depend on the yearly revenue generated from natural resources. Each qualified recipient will be entitled to this benefit, regardless of other sources of income. Nigerians’ well-being will always be my priority.

Assure Fair Remuneration: A National Minimum Living Wage (NMLW) of N150,000 will be introduced, ensuring every working individual in Nigeria receives a fair and livable wage.

Provide Guaranteed Inflation-adjusted Pension Payment: Under my administration, earning a pension is a commitment we will honor. Pensioners will receive payments, and importantly, these payments will include cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to reflect changing economic conditions.

My targeted economic policies aimed at expansion, entrepreneurship, job generation, and inflation control are designed to sustainably mitigate poverty. We will prepare individuals for the life of work and help them find jobs.