From Dan Amasingha, Minna

The Niger State Operations and Coordinating Unit (SOCU) has commenced training for 125 Enumerators from all 25 local government areas of Niger State.At the opening of the three-day Training of Trainers (ToT) focused on integrating the National Identification Number (NIN) into the National Social Register (NSR), the Commissioner for Planning, Mustapha Ndajiwo, stated that the training aims to equip participants with the tools needed to manage data more efficiently and to enhance the accuracy of the National Social Register (NSR).

The event, organized by the State Operations and Coordinating Unit (SOCU) in collaboration with the National Identification Management Commission (NIMC), featured remarks from the Commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Planning Commission, Hajia Aishetu Usman.She noted that a team of five participants had been carefully selected from each Local Government Area for the training.Ndajiwo emphasized, “The participants will be equipped to ensure that all social interventions reach the most vulnerable individuals among Nigerlites and Nigerians as a whole.”This collaboration between NASSCO, SOCU, and NIMC aims to fulfill the Presidential directive of mainstreaming the National Identity Number into the National Social Register.This initiative aligns with the priority objectives of President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” and Governor Umaru Bago’s “New Niger Agenda,” which seek to improve livelihoods and address the economic challenges faced by the poor and vulnerable households in the state and nationwide.Additionally, Ndajiwo disclosed that participants would receive training on how to operate the NIN enrollment device to expand NIMC coverage within the state. He urged the trainees to be effective drivers of this process, stating, “Your ability to grasp and apply the skills and knowledge gained from this training will ensure successful and sustainable integration in the long term.”In her opening remarks, the State Coordinator of SOCU, Hajia Hauwa, described the initiative as a crucial part of the government’s efforts, highlighting that it involves training Enumerators, Local Government Desk Officers, and Grievance Managers in all 25 Local Government Areas in the state.She explained, “Part of their responsibility will be to integrate the National Identification Number into the National Social Register, as well as update the State Social Register.The purpose of this training is to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed to enhance their confidence and effectively carry out their upcoming tasks, ultimately achieving the goals of the Social Protection policy in the state.”In her goodwill message, Funmi Olotu, the National Programme Manager of NASSCO, represented by Auwalu Ibrahim from the Zonal Management Information System, expressed confidence in the endeavor. She stated, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to supporting the vulnerable members of society. We believe that every Nigerian deserves to live a dignified life.”She encouraged participants to ensure that the Community-Based targeting team members and Enumerators acquire the necessary skills to carry out their work effectively. Olotu added,“This exercise represents a significant step in advancing the accuracy and reliability of our national data infrastructure, which is crucial for the effective implementation of social protection programs across the State.”