The Nigerian federal government is disbursing N75,000 monthly to vulnerable households under the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program, aiming to reach 15 million households by October 2025. Nentawe Yilwatda, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, stated that the program has already reached 6 million Nigerians in six months and plans to add another nine million beneficiaries by October 2025. This initiative aims to alleviate poverty through direct financial support, with beneficiaries independently verified by the World Bank.

Minister Yilwatda highlighted a significant increase in the program's reach, noting that previously, only two million people benefited over nine years, averaging 200,000 annually. The ministry has adopted digital reforms and stricter verification processes, including digitizing households on the social register, assigning digital identities, creating e-wallet accounts, and conducting physical verification to ensure accuracy and transparency. The World Bank is also conducting an independent audit of the disbursements to enhance credibility, confirming that 96% of beneficiaries are verifiable individuals listed in the social register.

In related news, NAFDAC (the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) has announced that the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks will be fully enforced after December 31, 2025. Kenneth Azikiwe, Director of the FCT Directorate of NAFDAC, clarified that the recent ministerial lifting of the ban is temporary, allowing manufacturers and regulators time to prepare for the enforcement. The public has been urged to disregard rumors of a permanent lifting, with NAFDAC emphasizing its commitment to public safety by regulating alcohol sales and phasing out sachets under 200ml.

NAFDAC is sensitizing distributors on responsible sales, reinforcing that alcohol should not be sold to individuals under 18. The agency commended the Distillers and Beverages Association of Nigeria for their support in public awareness campaigns. This measure aims to curb health risks and promote safer drinking habits across Nigeria.

In other regulatory actions, NAFDAC shut down 150 shops in Eziukwu Road Market, Aba South Local Government Area of Abia State, due to the production of unwholesome and fake products. This operation underscores NAFDAC's commitment to ensuring product safety and curbing the activities of unscrupulous individuals.

Furthermore, Beauty Hut Africa, in collaboration with Paystack, has launched an initiative to support female entrepreneurs in the beauty business in Nigeria with grants of up to N5 million and mentorship sessions. This support aims to help women-led businesses grow and succeed.