The Enugu State Government has launched the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Operation 2.0, a strategic intervention aimed at improving the livelihoods of no fewer than 3,000 rural residents across the state.
Unveiling the initiative, Governor , represented by the Secretary to the State Government, , described the programme as a critical collaboration between federal and state authorities designed to cushion the effects of economic hardship at the grassroots.
He noted that the initiative comes at a time when inflation and global economic pressures are taking a heavy toll on rural communities, stressing that the programme would strengthen resilience and promote inclusive development.
According to him, NG-CARES Operation 2.0 is anchored on three key pillars: access to potable water, improved sanitation, and livelihood support for vulnerable populations. He explained that the water component would expand solar-powered water schemes to ensure clean water supply, reduce waterborne diseases, and ease the burden on women and children.
On sanitation, the government plans to construct modern toilet facilities and promote better hygiene practices in rural communities, while the livelihood aspect will provide targeted grants to qualified beneficiaries based on verified data.
“The era of top-down governance is over. This is a community-driven development model where the people play a central role in decision-making and oversight,” Onyia stated.
Earlier, the General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of the State Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), , disclosed that about 3,000 beneficiaries would receive empowerment tools under the programme.
He revealed that the intervention includes the distribution of 2,480 Point of Sale (POS) machines and 520 vocational tools such as sewing, grinding, and hairdressing equipment. Beneficiaries, he added, would be selected from individuals aged 18 and above, with a strong focus on vulnerable groups identified through community-based assessments and the state social register.
Ani emphasised that the selection process would remain apolitical, with an independent committee set up to ensure transparency and prevent undue influence.
He further stated that the programme would run through the end of the year, beginning with community sensitisation and beneficiary selection, followed by implementation and monitoring using both physical and ICT-based systems to ensure accountability.
The CSDA boss also assured that persons with disabilities would be included in the intervention, noting that the programme reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
In his remarks, Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, , commended the initiative, describing it as a non-political effort aimed at improving the welfare of rural dwellers.
He expressed confidence that the programme would significantly impact grassroots communities, pledging the support of local government authorities to ensure its successful implementation without political interference.
