Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has called on individuals applying for social security cash benefits to ensure they submit their Bank Verification Number (BVN), emphasizing that no one will receive the funds without it.
Speaking in Awka during the distribution of food and support items to the less privileged, the minister explained that the BVN is a crucial requirement for receiving the grant.
“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been supporting the poor through the social security programme across the six geopolitical zones of the country. But only poor women are eligible to benefit,” she said.
Kennedy-Ohanenye reassured applicants not to fear submitting their BVN, stating, “Your BVN will not be used to steal your money; it is simply a safeguard to ensure that only those who truly qualify and have not benefited before receive the funds.”
She further assured the women that the current administration is committed to easing the hardship faced by Nigerians, adding that positive changes from President Tinubu’s policies will soon become evident.
During the event, the minister oversaw the distribution of 5,000 bags of rice, over 500 bags of fertilizer, and 300 cooking gas cylinders. The gas cylinders were donated by Mrs. Yinka Opeke, CEO of Smartgas, to promote a transition from fossil fuel to gas for cooking, which Kennedy-Ohanenye said is healthier.
“These items are from President Tinubu, and he has assured that more support will come. This distribution is for the poor, and only those present will benefit,” she said, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that government relief reaches the intended recipients.
The minister also announced the establishment of a mobile court to protect the interests of the underprivileged. She warned that those attempting to block the poor from benefiting would face legal consequences when the court becomes operational on October 15. Additionally, she revealed plans to launch an “Integrity Brigade” to fight societal ills.
“We are committed to serving Nigeria, and President Tinubu has pledged to improve the welfare of the poor,” she added.
