N-power Suspension: A Threat To Unemployed Youths
The N-Power program has been instrumental in empowering Nigerians, with a total enrollment of 960,000 individuals since its inception. Many of these beneficiaries have been part of NPower 1.0 and NPower 2.0, contributing to the program’s success.
The following reasons were outlined as to why the program was suspended
1. Detailed Audit Required
A comprehensive audit is imperative to:
Assess the current number of program participants.
Examine the status of those who have exited the program.
Investigate outstanding payments.
Evaluate compliance with work requirements.
Review the utilization of funds over this period.
2. Lapsed Participation and Unaccounted Payments
Recent findings have uncovered instances where program beneficiaries’ participation lapsed since 2022, yet they remained on the payroll, expecting payments. Additionally, some beneficiaries fail to report to their primary assignments but continue to receive monthly payments. These issues necessitate a thorough audit to verify claims and eliminate any irregularities.
3. Consultant Mismanagement
Preliminary audit results have revealed instances where consultants withhold funds meant for beneficiaries, even after their contracts ended in March 2023. Such practices are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Steps are being taken to identify those responsible, understand why payments did not reach the beneficiaries, and recover the funds.
Our Commitment to Transparency
We appeal to Nigerians to understand the rationale behind this temporary suspension and investigation. Our primary goal is to restore confidence in the N-Power program and ensure its improved service delivery.
Restructuring and Transformation
As part of our commitment to enhancing the program, we are embarking on a comprehensive restructuring and transformation. This includes:
1. Expanded Age Limit
We are increasing the age limit for program beneficiaries from 35 to 40, allowing a broader demographic to benefit from the program.
2. Increased Beneficiaries
We aim to reach 5 million beneficiaries over the next five years, at a rate of 1 million per year, encompassing graduate and non-graduate streams.
3. Introduction of New Programs
The restructuring will introduce new programs in education, health, work, agriculture, technology, fashion, entertainment, and other skill acquisition areas to provide a broader range of opportunities.
Transparency and Accountability
To regain the trust of Nigerians in the expanded program, we emphasize transparency and accountability as the guiding principles. We are committed to ensuring that no Nigerian suffers due to mismanagement, and we will make every effort to put the nation on the right path.
Resolution of Genuine Claims
We assure all beneficiaries with valid claims that their cases will be addressed once the verification process is complete, and all legitimate outstanding obligations will be honored. No beneficiary will be left unpaid.
Dr. Akindele Egbuwalo
National Programme Manager
N-Power for
Honorable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation