United States Gives Nigeria $2.3B To Fight Poverty

The United States through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Federal Government signed a developmental assistance agreement covering the next five years.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and USAID/Nigeria Director Michael T. Harvey signed the agreement during a ceremony at Aso Rock Villa.  U.S. Embassy Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Shawn E. Flatt was also present.

The $2.3 billion agreement comes on the heels of President Muhammadu Buhari’s July visit to Washington, D.C.  The agreement covers activities from 2015 through 2020 and aims to help Nigeria reduce extreme poverty in a more stable, democratic society.  Activities will stimulate inclusive economic growth, promote a healthier, more-educated population, and strengthen good governance.

“This agreement will provide a solid foundation for our two countries to partner together to reduce inequalities across the country,” said Mr. Harvey.  “I commend the Vice President and National Planning Commission for their leadership and support of the activities under this agreement,” he added.

In an effort to align Nigeria’s development plans with sector-specific strategies, USAID collaborated with the National Planning Commission; the Nigerian ministries of health, agriculture, power, and education; and state-level government counterparts to structure the agreement.

Source: The Nation