Enugu State says its EN-CARES programme has reached over 500,000 individuals and 10,000 businesses since 2022, expanding livelihoods, agriculture, and community infrastructure across the state.
The Enugu State Government says it has supported more than 500,000 individuals and over 10,000 businesses through its EN-CARES programme since 2022, in what officials describe as one of the state’s largest social intervention efforts.
The Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Chris-Robert Ozongwu, disclosed this on Friday in Enugu during the unveiling of NG-CARES 2.0, also tagged Operation 2.0.
Ozongwu, who also chairs the state CARES Steering Committee, said the programme has delivered measurable improvements in livelihoods across communities.
According to him, more than 217 community micro-projects have been completed, while thousands of farmers have received agricultural inputs and equipment to boost productivity.
He noted that the intervention has strengthened resilience in rural and urban communities alike, particularly among low-income households.
“We have seen communities light up, not just with solar-powered water systems, but with renewed hope. Farmers are harvesting more, earning more and feeding their families better, while small businesses have survived economic shocks,” he said.
Ozongwu stressed that the results go beyond statistics, reflecting tangible improvements in living conditions for vulnerable residents.
He explained that the rollout of NG-CARES 2.0 will significantly expand the programme’s reach, including solar-powered water systems in over 100 communities and public toilet facilities in 127 communities.
He also disclosed plans to provide agricultural inputs to over 8,000 farmers, with an additional 12,000 targeted under the next phase.
A comprehensive social register covering more than 250,000 households is also being developed to improve targeting and transparency in future interventions.
Ozongwu commended Governor Peter Mbah for what he described as result-driven leadership focused on citizens’ welfare, as well as development partners including the World Bank for their continued support.
He also praised implementing agencies such as the Community and Social Development Agency, FADAMA, SME Development Agency, and the State Operation Coordinating Unit for their roles in delivering the programme.
He urged traditional rulers, civil society groups, and community leaders to sustain support for the initiative’s expansion phase.
Ozongwu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, stating that no eligible resident would be excluded as the state works toward sustainable prosperity.
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