Over 10 Million Beneficiaries of Cash Transfers Lack Access to Phones and Social Media, Says APC Chairman

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has highlighted a significant communication gap affecting over 10 million vulnerable Nigerians who are beneficiaries of the N75,000 conditional cash transfer program. Speaking to journalists after a three-day retreat of the APC National Executive Council held in Maiduguri, Borno State, Yilwatda emphasized that these individuals are largely excluded from public discussions about government policies due to their lack of access to mobile phones and social media platforms.

According to Yilwatda, the beneficiaries of this cash transfer initiative are predominantly poor and vulnerable Nigerians, many of whom do not own telephones or have access to television. He stated, "We have given 75,000 naira to over 10 million Nigerians across the country using the conditional cash transfer under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. These people cannot come and challenge and discuss as we are doing here, but they are out there." This admission raises concerns about the inclusivity of governance and the representation of marginalized voices in national dialogues.

Yilwatda also took the opportunity to criticize former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress, regarding his stance on the fuel subsidy. He argued that the removal of subsidies has allowed more than 30 states to meet their salary and pension obligations, stating, "After we removed subsidies, all states can pay salaries and pensions, and no state is unable to pay." This remark underscores the ongoing debate about economic reforms and their impact on citizens across Nigeria.

The implications of these statements are significant as they point to a broader issue of digital divide in Nigeria, where a substantial portion of the population remains disconnected from the very tools that facilitate civic engagement and access to information. As the government continues to implement social welfare programs, it raises the question of how effectively these programs can reach and engage the most vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, the remarks made by the APC Chairman reflect a critical need for a more inclusive approach in policy discussions, ensuring that the voices of all Nigerians, especially those who are marginalized, are heard and considered in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.