The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially commenced the distribution of Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards to millions of citizens under its new Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Initiative, aimed at providing direct financial relief to vulnerable households across the country.
The program, which started on August 29, 2025, is being coordinated by the National Social Safety-Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO) in collaboration with the National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO). Beneficiaries will receive a one-time payment of ₦75,000 through the newly issued debit cards once they are activated.
Rollout Begins in Gombe
The first phase of the distribution exercise took place in Jekadafari Darazawa Quarters, Gombe State, where thousands of residents turned out to collect their cards. Similar exercises are expected to spread across other states in the coming days as part of a nationwide rollout.
Eligibility and Requirements
To activate the debit cards, beneficiaries are required to present their:
National Identification Number (NIN)
Bank Verification Number (BVN)
Registered phone number
Officials explained that these requirements are necessary to verify identities and ensure the payments go directly to eligible households.
Millions Expected to Benefit
According to government estimates, the initiative will eventually cover 15 million vulnerable households, representing about 70 million Nigerians. The scheme is part of President Bola Tinubu’s strategy to cushion the effects of economic hardship and rising living costs on low-income families.
Background
The ₦75,000 cash transfer is one of several welfare packages under the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. In July 2025, Ondo State became one of the first to distribute debit cards to over 12,800 households for similar conditional cash transfers, setting the stage for this nationwide expansion.
Government’s Assurance
Speaking during the flag-off, officials of NASSCO assured Nigerians that the distribution process would be transparent and corruption-free. They urged beneficiaries to safeguard their cards and avoid third-party interference.
Conclusion
With the commencement of ATM card distribution, millions of Nigerians are set to receive direct cash support from the government in the coming weeks. The ₦75,000 transfer is expected to provide temporary relief and support household expenses amid current economic challenges.
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