The Delta State Government has reiterated its determination to implement social protection programmes that are shielded from political interference, with the aim of directly benefiting the most vulnerable across communities.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, gave the assurance on Wednesday in Asaba at a forum on social protection themed “Accelerating Inclusive Social Protection in Delta State: Building Stronger Systems for Poverty Reduction and Resilience”. The event was organised by the ActNaija Consortium in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Planning.
Aniagwu commended the efforts of stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, and social protection advocate, Rev. David Ugolo, for their contributions to advancing inclusiveness and poverty reduction in the state.
He emphasised that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has directed that all social interventions must remain insulated from political manipulation.
“The governor has made it clear that poverty is no respecter of political affiliation. This is why we involve traditional institutions, religious leaders, town unions, youth and women’s groups in the implementation process, to ensure that interventions reach the vulnerable without bias,” Aniagwu said.
The Commissioner explained that beyond cash transfers, the state government is prioritising sustainable empowerment initiatives, particularly the construction of rural access roads to connect farming communities to markets. According to him, indigenous contractors are given priority to stimulate local economies and create employment opportunities.
Aniagwu further highlighted key interventions under the administration’s multi-pronged approach, including the MORE Business Programme, Rural Youth Skills Acquisition (RYSA) scheme, and the Widows Empowerment Programme, all designed to ease economic pressures and provide lasting livelihoods.
He cautioned against unproductive empowerment models such as indiscriminate cash handouts, warning that they could fuel inflation and undermine productivity.
“Empowerment must be tied to productivity,” he insisted. “Our model attaches value to every intervention by supporting those already engaged in enterprise while equipping new entrants with relevant skills.”
The Commissioner also condemned a culture of political patronage where appointees earn salaries without defined responsibilities, describing it as counterproductive to genuine industry.
He urged stakeholders to align with the state’s vision of building a social protection system that promotes resilience, self-reliance, and the dignity of labour.
Expressing optimism, Aniagwu noted that the forum would not end as a “talk shop” but would produce concrete strategies to strengthen social protection systems and improve the well-being of Deltans.
