Bauchi Seeks Additional $500 Million for NG-CARES Expansion
By, Abdulwahab Muhammad Bauchi
Bauchi, Nigeria – March 4, 2025
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has directed the State Implementation Unit of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) program to urgently explore ways to secure additional financing from the World Bank-backed initiative.
Speaking at the official distribution of ICT enhancement facilities to 7,000 beneficiaries under NG-CARES, Governor Mohammed emphasized the state's commitment to expanding the program. He revealed that the World Bank has approved an additional $500 million in funding for NG-CARES 2.0, with each participating state eligible to access $12 million, while another $46 million remains unallocated for redistribution during the program’s mid-term review.
Technology as a Driver of Economic Growth
The governor highlighted the successful implementation of NG-CARES Result Area 3, which focuses on strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The recent distribution of ICT enhancement facilities, worth over ₦1 billion, is expected to empower small business owners, traders, and farmers, equipping them with smartphones, laptops, tablets, and POS machines to improve productivity and financial inclusion.
“With these tools, our youths, small business owners, farmers, and traders will now have the means to expand their businesses, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to the economy in a more meaningful way,” the governor stated.
He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to poverty alleviation and digital inclusion, emphasizing that economic development requires multi-faceted solutions. “This program is not just about distributing technology; it is about creating a sustainable ecosystem where businesses can thrive,” he added.
NG-CARES National Coordinator Commends Bauchi’s Progress
The National Coordinator of NG-CARES, represented by the Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, Atiku Musa, congratulated Bauchi on its progress in implementing the initiative. He noted that the distribution of ICT gadgets aligns with the program’s goal of digital empowerment.
Similarly, Bauchi’s Commissioner for Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Sadiq Shira, commended Governor Mohammed’s visionary leadership, emphasizing that the initiative reflects the state’s commitment to leveraging technology for economic growth.
Expanding Social Protection Programs
Governor Mohammed assured development partners that NG-CARES 2.0 would be fully implemented in Bauchi, reaffirming his vision of creating an environment where all citizens have access to the resources needed for success.
“We will continue to work closely with the World Bank and other development partners to expand and strengthen our social protection programs,” he assured.
With Bauchi seeking additional financing under NG-CARES 2.0, the state positions itself as a leading player in economic resilience and digital empowerment, setting an example for other Nigerian states.
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