**FG Targets 15 Million Households in Social Protection Expansion - Minister** In commemoration of this year's International Women's Day, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding social protection programmes to reach 15 million vulnerable households across Nigeria. This move is aimed at strengthening inclusive growth and empowering women and families. The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, made this disclosure during a press briefing in Abuja to highlight key initiatives under the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions. According to the minister, the Tinubu administration has placed social protection, inclusive growth, and human capital development at the heart of Nigeria's economic transformation. Empowering women and supporting families are crucial to building a resilient and prosperous economy, the minister noted. With about nine million households already reached through direct benefit transfer programmes, the Federal Government aims to expand coverage to 15 million households across the country. "We believe that empowering women and safeguarding the wellbeing of vulnerable members of society are essential to building a strong and prosperous economy," Edun said. "Our focus is not just on welfare, but on social investment as a strategic economic priority." Through the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions, the Federal Government is expanding targeted programmes to improve access to education, healthcare, financial inclusion, and livelihood opportunities for women and families. These initiatives aim to reduce poverty, build resilience among vulnerable populations, and unlock the economic potential of women and girls as key drivers of national development. By empowering women, the minister stressed that the government can stimulate economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve living standards across the country. This commitment to social protection and inclusive growth aligns with the government's vision for a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria.