By Victoria Onehi
The National Coordinator / CEO of the National Social Investment Programmes Agency (N-SIPA) Hajiya Halima Shehu, has said the more the people are uplifted out of poverty the less crime rate in the society.
Shehu stated this during her maidein press conference after she resumed office at the N-SIPA Headquarters today in Abuja.
“Poverty as we all know , engenders crime in any society, the more the people are uplifted out of poverty the lesser the crime rate in any society.” She said.
She further disclosed that though the programme has witnessed so many criticisms in the country for lack of transparency, accountability, free & fair selection of beneficiaries, realistic data base amongst others, she will ensure that all these issues are dealt with.
“We hope to do better in this aspect especially now that the programmes are governed by an act which is a legal framework that clearly states the function of the Agency, the CEO & Stake holders.”She noted.
The National Coordinator said she and her team will be focused, committed, dedicated & passionate in carrying out this sensitive assignment of poverty alleviation which is one of the biggest promise In President Tinubus’ Renewed Hope mandate.
She added that her work experience in the ministry in the last four years has availed her the opportunity to interface with the needy across the country and witnessed how the different programmes have empowered beneficiaries.
She thanked the Minister  of Humanitarian and Poverty Alilviation Dr Betta Edu, adding that having N-SIPA under the supervision of the Ministry will ensure all areas of operational lapses will be looked into for better life transforming interventions on poor Nigerians across the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory ( FCT , Abuja ) .
“I have confidence that with full support by your Ministry N-SIPA, would make the ‘ Renewed Hope Mantra of President Bola Tinubu ‘s administration , a practical reality among vulnerable Nigerians.” she noted.
