NATIONAL SOCIAL PROTECTION POLICY
Policy · Social
Policy date: 2026-03-04
A Policy establishes a central framework designed to reduce poverty and provide a life of dignity for vulnerable citizens. It adopts a life cycle approach, identifying specific risks faced by people at different stages of life. The policy transforms social support from a charity model into a systematic, rights-based approach.
What Is This Policy?
The National Social Protection Policy (NSPP) sometimes referred to with an additional "D" for Development or Draft is Nigeria’s central framework designed to reduce poverty and provide a "life of dignity" for its most vulnerable citizens.
Who Does It Target?
The NSPP adopts a "Life Cycle Approach," meaning it identifies specific risks people face at different stages of life. While the ultimate goal is universal coverage for all Nigerians, the policy specifically prioritizes the poor and vulnerable.
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
The National Social Protection Policy (NSPP) is built on the belief that "no Nigerian should live below a life of dignity." To achieve this, it sets out clear short-term and long-term goals that transform social support from a "charity" model to a systematic "right" of the citizen.
Key Features
The Life Cycle Approach
The National Social Register (NSR)
Integrated Financing Mechanism
Current Status
Active and being implemented. The National Social Protection Policy is being implemented through the National Social Investment Programme and its cash transfer schemes.
Legal Framework
1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) National Social Safety Nets Program (NSSNP)