From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, has emphasized the importance of social protection in creating a more just and compassionate society.
Speaking at a two-day strategic stakeholders’ orientation on social protection, Dr. Balarabe stressed that social protection is not only a moral obligation but also a political responsibility and a collective commitment to the people.
Dr. Balarabe praised Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, noting his dedication to prioritizing people over politics and humanity over headlines.
She acknowledged that the governor’s administration has implemented practical interventions aimed at alleviating poverty and empowering communities.
These include grants and support for women and youth entrepreneurs, financial inclusion initiatives, and targeted empowerment programs for small and micro businesses.
The Deputy Governor highlighted that investing in people is crucial for building a strong and stable society.
She pointed out that Governor Sani’s administration is not only focused on constructing roads and bridges but also on improving lives and alleviating burdens. By investing in the populace, the government is developing human capital and promoting social protection.
Dr. Balarabe expressed her gratitude to UNICEF for its unwavering support to Kaduna State in advancing education, health, and social welfare
. She emphasized the need for collaboration and partnership in achieving social protection goals and encouraged stakeholders to recommit to the pursuit of justice and compassion.
The Deputy Governor urged attendees to view the gathering as a movement—an opportunity to renew their commitment and strengthen their resolve.
She called on them to discuss, dream, and design a vision for Kaduna, a place where no child goes hungry, no woman is left in poverty, and no youth is consigned to despair.
In conclusion, Dr. Balarabe emphasized that together, they can create a Kaduna where social protection is not merely a program but a promise to the poor, the vulnerable, and the underserved.
She urged stakeholders to unite, fortified in spirit and purpose, to build a more just and compassionate society.
In her remarks, the Special Adviser to the Kaduna State Governor on the Social Protection Program, Bridget Suleiman, stated that the two-day orientation had five core objectives: convening a statewide orientation session, building a shared vision among stakeholders, fostering stronger collaboration, grounding efforts in evidence, and identifying opportunities and gaps in social protection systems.
Miss Jessica Bartholomew, the Chair of the Kaduna Social Protection Accountability Coalition (KADSPAC), presented the Social Protection Mapping Report for the state. This report clarifies the current state of social protection, highlights successes, and identifies gaps in existing interventions.
Speakers emphasized that social protection is not merely a collection of programs; it is a comprehensive system that impacts every sector of the state.
They highlighted the critical role of social protection in reducing poverty, fostering dignity, and promoting resilience and hope for future generations. Social protection was described as a commitment that ensures every child can attend school, no family falls deeper into poverty due to illness, and the elderly and vulnerable are treated with dignity.
Stakeholders were urged to move beyond rhetoric and commit to meaningful action, working together to create a Kaduna State where social protection is not a privilege for a few but a right for all.
The orientation aimed to identify actionable next steps and opportunities to strengthen social protection systems, address gaps, ensure inclusivity, and enhance the impact on vulnerable populations.
