Nigeria's Government Allocates N658.9bn to Support Households

As of September 2026, the Federal Government of Nigeria has disbursed N658.9 billion in direct cash transfers to 10.46 million poor and vulnerable households. The World Bank has recommended that the government enhance the program by expanding its coverage, ensuring adequate payments, and maintaining consistent disbursements.

The World Bank's recommendations are part of the Nigeria Development Update titled ‘Beyond the Federal Purse: How Higher Revenues Shaped State Priorities’. The report emphasizes the importance of establishing a sustainable social protection system to provide regular support rather than relying solely on emergency interventions.

The Federal Government utilized biometric and digital verification systems for beneficiary identification and payment delivery. The World Bank stressed that the effectiveness of social protection measures depends on the number of beneficiaries reached, the adequacy of assistance, and the regularity of payments.

The report advocates for a long-term funding framework for social protection to maintain assistance for vulnerable households.