Federal Government Launches NERSI, Introduces ₦50,000 Monthly Cash Relief for Vulnerable Nigerian Households

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a new social protection initiative known as the National Emergency Relief and Stabilisation Intervention (NERSI), introducing a monthly cash relief programme of ₦50,000 for eligible vulnerable households across the country.

The initiative was officially announced on October 30, 2026, by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction as part of efforts to ease the financial pressure facing low-income Nigerians amid rising food prices and the increasing cost of essential goods.

According to the ministry, NERSI is designed as a shock-responsive cash transfer programme that will provide direct financial assistance to vulnerable households, helping beneficiaries meet basic needs and manage short-term economic difficulties.

Under the Programme, eligible beneficiaries are expected to be receiving an automatic ₦50,000 monthly transfers. The ministry explained that the intervention will be reviewed periodically in response to changes in the cost of living, with beneficiaries receiving

direct notifications before any adjustments are made.

To facilitate payments, the government is working with licensed digital financial service providers. Beneficiaries are expected to receive text messages requesting their consent before payments are processed directly into their bank accounts or mobile wallets.

The ministry has also clarified that Nigerians do not need to submit applications, pay registration fees or engage agents to access the programme.

Members of the public have been warned against individuals demanding money or requesting sensitive banking information in connection with the intervention. The government specifically cautioned Nigerians never to disclose their personal identification numbers or Bank Verification Numbers.

For enquiries, the ministry provided an official helpline: 0700-022-2222.

The government described NERSI as part of its broader social protection efforts aimed at providing immediate financial support while strengthening household resilience.

The programme is expected to provide additional assistance to vulnerable Nigerians as the country continues to navigate economic pressures and the rising cost of living.