Edo Invests in Micro-Infrastructure Projects in 16 Communities
In an empowering move, the Edo State Government has given the green light for the implementation of micro-infrastructure projects in 16 communities across 11 local councils.
These projects will be funded by the state as part of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus Programme (NG CARES) in Edo State.
Mrs. Ifueko Alufohai, Edo State Coordinator of the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA) and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths and Humanitarian Affairs, shared this exciting development with journalists in Benin City while presenting awards to the selected communities for their forthcoming projects.
Alufohai expressed the state’s enthusiasm in providing support to communities and vulnerable groups amidst the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, currently in its third wave. She emphasized Edo State’s commitment to alleviating the impact of the pandemic through initiatives that empower communities and enhance their resilience.
According to her, “We are gathered here today to provide support at the community level, especially for the poorest communities in selected LGAs through micro-infrastructure projects in the sectors of health, education, nutrition, water and sanitation being implemented by the Community and Social Development Agency.
“The NG-CARES domesticated in Edo State and codenamed Edo-CARES Programme is an Emergency Relief World Bank Funded Programme set up to ameliorate the adverse effect of COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria.
“The programme is focused on increasing cash transfers and livelihood support to the poor and vulnerable households; increase food security and safe functioning of food supply chains and prevent collapse/facilitating the recovery of households/micro-enterprises.”
She added, “The programme aligns with this administration’s drive to protect livelihoods while dealing with the fallouts of the pandemic and has come at a time, when the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is destabilizing the living conditions of various households and the government’s economy.”
“I urge the benefitting communities and members of these communities to apply themselves dutifully to their assigned roles so as to make the maximum benefit from the intervention.”
On his part, the Director-General of Edo CSDA, Engr. Osarume Osazuwa said, “These Communities have satisfied all requirements of community-driven development as stipulated in our general operations manual and have been trained to implement their respective micro-projects.”
Also, His Royal Highness (HRH) Anthony Osagie, the Enogie of Ofumegbe in Oredo local council commended Governor Godwin Obaseki for the initiative which allows communities to own and execute their projects.
He said, “This is a great experience; it has never happened like this before in Edo State. The governor is working and we all can see the great job he has been doing for Edo people.”
