The National Emergency Livelihoods Fund (NELFUND) has announced plans to raise the monthly upkeep allowance for its beneficiaries from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 in 2026, government sources confirmed on Friday.

In a statement obtained by the source, the management of NELFUND said the proposed increase aims to cushion economic hardship and enhance the welfare of low-income participants enrolled in its livelihood support programmes.

According to the statement, the review of the allowance was approved following consultations with relevant stakeholders, including community leaders, development partners and financial experts, to ensure that the adjustment aligns with current economic realities and cost of living pressures.

“The increment from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 is part of our commitment to improving the standard of living of our beneficiaries and providing meaningful support to vulnerable households across the country,” the statement said.

While details of the implementation timeline are still being finalised, NELFUND said the revised allowance is expected to take effect early in the first quarter of 2026, pending necessary budgetary and administrative approvals.

Officials noted that the new funding structure will be incorporated into NELFUND’s 2026 operational plan, alongside strengthened monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability in disbursements.

The fund also reiterated its dedication to expanding access to economic opportunities through skills development, micro-enterprise support, and cash transfers to target groups most affected by poverty and unemployment.

Stakeholders welcomed the proposed increment, describing it as a positive step toward alleviating economic hardship among vulnerable Nigerians, while urging swift implementation to maximise impact.

NELFUND, established to support emergency livelihoods and social protection interventions, continues to collaborate with federal and state partners to reach underserved populations and promote sustainable economic resilience.