Latest Npower and NASIMS News: Payments, Npower 3.0, and Skill Up Nigeria
In the latest updates regarding Npower and NASIMS, there are important developments to be aware of. As of October 16, 2023, significant changes are taking place in the Npower program, with a focus on payments and a new initiative called “Skill Up Nigeria.”
This article provides insights into these updates and the reasons behind the temporary suspension of Npower.
- Good News for NPower Beneficiaries: The Federal Ministry responsible for Npower has successfully recovered funds that were previously missing. This money was intended to support Npower beneficiaries. The recovery of these funds paves the way for a positive announcement: Npower beneficiaries who haven’t received their stipends for eight months will soon receive their payments. Mr. Akindele, in charge of Npower, conveyed this reassuring news.
- The NPower Program and Dr. Betta Edu’s Efforts: Mr. Akindele also mentioned the diligent efforts of Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs. She is actively working to address issues within the Npower program and ensure that beneficiaries receive their stipends. One significant problem was the delayed payment of monthly stipends, which has now been resolved.
- Introduction of “Skill Up Nigeria” (N-Power 3.0): The Nigerian government has launched a new Social Empowerment Program known as “Skill Up Nigeria.” This initiative is an expanded version of the Npower program, which was temporarily suspended due to irregularities. The goal of “Skill Up Nigeria” is to better serve Nigerians by targeting five million beneficiaries in the next five years. It is poised to provide opportunities for skill development and employment.
- Reasons for the Temporary Suspension of N-Power: N-Power, initiated in 2016, was designed to address youth unemployment, poverty reduction, and social development in Nigeria. It provided government jobs to unemployed graduates and non-graduates aged between 18 and 35, with a monthly stipend of 30,000 naira. However, inconsistencies within the program were identified, including beneficiaries not reporting to their assigned jobs, those with other employment still benefiting from N-Power payments, and issues with consultants holding onto beneficiary funds.
- Skill Up Nigeria (N-Power 3.0) Overview: While specific details about “Skill Up Nigeria” (N-Power 3.0) are still emerging, the initiative aims to offer programs in various sectors such as education, health, agriculture, technology, fashion, entertainment, and more. The age limit for beneficiaries has been extended to between 18 and 40 years. The primary objective is to onboard five million beneficiaries over the next five years, adding one million beneficiaries annually across both graduate and non-graduate categories.
Conclusion: The recovery of missing funds and the promise of stipend payments for Npower beneficiaries is a positive development. The launch of “Skill Up Nigeria” (N-Power 3.0) shows the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment and promoting skill development among Nigeria’s youth. The temporary suspension of Npower allowed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to address program irregularities and pave the way for a more robust and inclusive initiative. As these changes unfold, young Nigerians can look forward to better opportunities and a strengthened commitment to poverty reduction.