Delta Hosts NG-CARES South-South Zonal Review Meeting, Charts Path for NG-CARES 2.0

Stakeholders from across the South-South region gathered in Asaba, Delta State, on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, for the NG-CARES South-South Zonal Independent Verification Agents (IVAs) Performance Review Meeting.

The meeting brought together representatives of the World Bank, the Federal Government of Nigeria, state governments, and implementing partners to evaluate programme outcomes and chart a course for its next phase.

Speaking at the event, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Kingsley Emu, commended the collaborative efforts that have sustained NG-CARES since its inception.

He noted that although the initiative was originally designed as an emergency intervention to cushion the socio-economic shocks of COVID-19, it has evolved into a multi-dimensional development tool driving grassroots transformation nationwide.

“The impact of NG-CARES in Delta State cannot be overemphasized. Through this initiative, we have reached over 306,177 direct beneficiaries and more than 1.2 million indirect beneficiaries. This programme has not only alleviated poverty but also stimulated economic growth and empowered our communities,” Oborevwori stated.

The Governor emphasized the role of IVAs in ensuring transparency, accountability, and objectivity in programme assessments. He added that deliberations at the meeting would shape strategies for the re-engagement of IVAs under the next phase, NG-CARES 2.0.

According to him, NG-CARES 2.0 will adopt a Community Action approach, placing communities at the centre of planning and execution.

NG-CARES Delta Cares Beneficiaries display their micro-products and services.

“This grassroots-driven model empowers communities to identify their own needs, implement solutions, and take ownership of interventions such as the construction and rehabilitation of social infrastructure. By putting communities at the heart of implementation, NG-CARES 2.0 will deliver deeper impact, stronger accountability, and more sustainable development,” he said.

World Bank Task Team Leader, Mr. Lire Ersado, disclosed that the Bank has committed $700 million to support NG-CARES nationwide. He praised Delta State for its significant counterpart funding and strong record of implementation.

“Delta State has been one of the leading contributors to this programme. While the Federal Government accessed N2.2 billion, Delta’s commitment stands out. For the World Bank, what matters most is not just how much has been spent, but how the programme is improving lives on the ground,” Ersado said.

He stressed that the Bank’s priority remains tangible and measurable improvements in the lives of smallholder farmers, micro and small businesses, and vulnerable households across Nigeria.

In her welcome remarks, Delta State D-CARES Coordinator, Lady Dr. Pat Ogbewe, reaffirmed the importance of accountability in ensuring NG-CARES delivers measurable benefits.

She noted that similar review meetings were being held simultaneously in Nasarawa and Kebbi States, reflecting nationwide commitment to transparency.

“This meeting underscores the authenticity and significance of our collective efforts in strengthening accountability within the NG-CARES Programme. We are confident that the outcomes of this review will provide a clear roadmap for strengthening the programme and guiding the effective engagement of Independent Verification Agents under the NG-CARES 2.0 dispensation,” she said.

The meeting had in attendance delegates from Cross River, Bayelsa, Edo, and Delta States, alongside federal and World Bank representatives.