Governor Umar Namadi has introduced the Jigawa State Old Age Social Protection Scheme, targeting 5,740 elderly citizens across the state. Each beneficiary will receive a monthly cash transfer of ₦10,000, alongside free healthcare and social care services, in what the governor described as part of efforts to build an inclusive and compassionate society.
Speaking during the launch at the Dutse Local Government Secretariat, Namadi said the initiative complements other welfare programmes such as the Maternal Cash Transfer Scheme and the Social Security Scheme for Persons with Disabilities. He explained that the first phase would cover 20 elderly beneficiaries from each of the state’s 287 political wards, managed by the Jigawa Rehabilitation Board and the Contributory Health Insurance Agency.
The governor emphasized that the project aligns with Jigawa’s Social Protection Policy, which promotes equity and dignity for vulnerable citizens. He further announced plans to introduce an Orphans Welfare Programme, while beneficiaries, who received ATM cards for payments, expressed appreciation, noting that the scheme would help reduce street begging and improve living conditions in the state.