08/06/2026
PRESS RELEASE
ASARI-TORU CHAIRMAN HOLDS TOWN HALL MEETING ON SOCIAL PROTECTION PROGRAMMES, WARNS AGAINST DRUG ABUSE
The Executive Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Area, Hon. Onengiyeofori George, PhD, DSSRS, today convened a Town Hall Meeting with critical stakeholders across the Local Government Area as part of efforts to deepen community participation in the ongoing social protection initiatives of the Federal Government.
The meeting was attended by the Regent of the Kalabari Kingdom, ably represented by Chief Ibiba Princewill, traditional rulers from various communities in Asari-Toru, Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairmen, women and youth leaders, members of the Buguma Internal Affairs Society, as well as other opinion leaders.
The Town Hall Meeting served as a sensitization forum for the intervention programme being implemented through the National Social Safety-Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO) and the State Operations Coordinating Unit (SOCU). The exercise is aimed at identifying and empowering the poorest and most vulnerable households within communities through the National Social Register and other social protection programmes of the Federal Government.
Addressing participants, Hon. George emphasized the importance of ensuring that the benefits of the programme reach those for whom it is intended, particularly the poorest and most vulnerable members of society. He urged community leaders to cooperate fully with the process and ensure transparency and fairness in the identification of beneficiaries.
The Chairman also expressed grave concern over the growing incidence of drug abuse among youths in the Local Government Area. He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, parents, women and youth groups to intensify efforts at sensitizing young people on the dangers of substance abuse, warning that the Local Government Administration would not hesitate to take decisive measures against individuals found engaging in activities that threaten the peace, security and future of the area.
The State Coordinator of the SOCU Team, Mr. Solomon Orugbani, alongside the Team Supervisor, Dr. Oruenene Gillis Harry, led the sensitization session and enlightened stakeholders on the objectives, processes and expected benefits of the programme.
Hon. George commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for its commitment to poverty alleviation and social protection, while expressing confidence that the intervention would positively impact the lives of vulnerable citizens. He further appealed to all stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of the programme get to the truly deserving members of society.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the programme and collaborate with government in addressing social challenges within Asari-Toru Local Government Area.
Signed:
Barr. Mrs. Winnie Omuboba Morganson
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman
Asari-Toru Local Government Area