— Social Welfare Service Bill Scales Second Reading
The Senate on Thursday took a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s social protection framework as a Bill seeking to establish a Social Welfare Service to combat extreme poverty scaled its second reading.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC–Abia), aims to create a centralised, data-driven institution responsible for designing and implementing welfare programmes across the country.
During the lead debate, Senator Kalu said the Bill targets one of Nigeria’s most pressing national challenges — persistent extreme poverty despite years of government intervention.
“In spite of the various interventions over the years, millions of Nigerians still lack access to basic necessities,” Kalu said.
“What is missing is a centralised, coordinated, and data-driven institution to manage social welfare programmes. This bill provides exactly that.”
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According to him, the proposed Social Welfare Service would operate as a department under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, with branches in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Its mandate includes ensuring social protection programmes reach underserved communities, breaking away from what he described as the “typical top-down approach.”
Kalu highlighted that the Service would manage critical welfare initiatives such as food and cash transfers, education stipends, financial aid, housing support, and subsidies for marginal farmers.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the plenary, referred the Bill to the Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Services for further legislative scrutiny. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks.
If passed into law, the Bill could redefine Nigeria’s approach to poverty alleviation by creating a structured, transparent, and inclusive social welfare system.
NAN