By Milcah Tanimu
The Greece Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Ioannis Plotas, has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to assisting the Federal Government of Nigeria in its mission to eradicate poverty.
Plotas conveyed this commitment during his meeting with Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, held in Abuja on Thursday.
The ambassador’s visit aimed to strengthen collaboration between Nigeria and Greece to bolster the nation’s humanitarian initiatives.
Plotas stated, “My visit was to explore the possibilities of further cooperation in the domain of humanitarian affairs. We have the expertise in these issues, having provided support to different countries worldwide. Nigeria is a priority for us, considering the continent’s importance.”
Recognizing the pressing needs within certain Nigerian states, he added, “In order to alleviate poverty and provide assistance in humanitarian efforts, our government is prepared to contribute financially or in kind, including materials, through organizations such as the Committee of the Red Cross or the Greek Red Cross Society. Our goal is to help as many people as possible escape poverty.”
Plotas assured the Nigerian government of Greece’s determination to provide the necessary support.
In response, Minister Betta Edu expressed her administration’s commitment to lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty. She acknowledged the long-standing relationship between the two countries and expressed her dedication to strengthening it to the benefit of Nigerians.
The minister outlined the ministry’s focus on establishing a robust and sustainable poverty alleviation program, particularly a social safety net to aid vulnerable groups within Nigeria.
“We have a significant number of Nigerians living below the poverty line, and we will explore partnerships with the international community and within ourselves to develop policies that can lift these people out of poverty,” she stated.
She also emphasized the ministry’s core mandate, which includes managing, preventing, and mitigating humanitarian crises and helping individuals recover and reintegrate into their communities.
“We, as a government led by Tinubu, are committed to seeing Nigerians escape poverty, and this engagement has already begun,” Minister Edu concluded.