Retired Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Useni, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and distinguished military officer, has passed away at the age of 82. He died on Thursday following a prolonged illness.

The news of his death was announced in a statement by Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

Governor Mutfwang described Useni’s passing as a profound loss, not only to his family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation. Reflecting on the late general’s contributions, the governor emphasized Useni’s remarkable legacy in both Nigeria’s security and political arenas.

“His tireless efforts to promote peace and security, particularly in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State, left an indelible mark on our nation,” the governor stated.

Governor Mutfwang extended prayers for strength and fortitude to Useni’s family, the people of Plateau State, and the nation at large. He also called for God’s comforting presence to provide solace during this period of mourning.

Lt. Gen. Useni will be remembered for his dedication to Nigeria and his significant contributions to national development and security.

The federal government has approved a N4 billion allocation for conditional cash transfers aimed at assisting vulnerable households across Nigeria.

At the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) at the United Nations House in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwada, announced the initiative designed to tackle Nigeria’s growing humanitarian challenges.

The program will benefit at least 10 million displaced households, with a special focus on the most vulnerable members of society. The cash transfers are set to begin in February and will run through April, specifically targeting families affected by displacement in the Northeast.

"We are prioritizing women, especially widows, pregnant women, and those with disabilities," Yilwada said. "The challenges faced by displaced women, particularly those dealing with pregnancy or disabilities, are tough, and we are dedicated to offering support to those who need it most."

Along with the cash transfer initiative, the government has approved N2 billion for interest-free loans to farmers in rural areas to boost food production and self-sufficiency. Yilwada stated that loans ranging from N300,000 to N400,000 per household will be offered to rural farmers to help them access essential resources and link them to market opportunities.

Furthermore, a N4 billion provision has been made to support vulnerable groups affected by natural disasters and crises. These initiatives are part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce poverty and provide aid to those in dire need.

Yilwada reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, and other affected communities across the nation. He explained that the HNRP was developed through extensive consultations and focuses on the humanitarian needs of conflict-affected areas such as Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe.

“We are combining efforts across humanitarian, developmental, and peacebuilding platforms to ensure long-term resilience and sustainable solutions for these communities,” Yilwada concluded.