By Theresa Odachi Ikwue
The widespread distribution of free money in the name of poverty alleviation has done little to improve the lives of ordinary citizens. Instead, it has fueled corruption, deepened inequality, and created a cycle of dependency. Every year, governments allocate huge sums for cash transfers, yet poverty remains widespread, and living conditions continue to deteriorate. The reality is that much of this money ends up in the hands of the politically connected relatives of government officials and those overseeing these programs rather than reaching the truly needy.
A better approach is to use these resources to provide essential public services and infrastructure that benefit all citizens, not just a privileged few. Clean water, electricity, healthcare, quality education, good roads, and reliable public transportation are far more valuable than temporary cash handouts. These investments create lasting change, empowering individuals and communities to lift themselves out of poverty.
The Lasting Impact of Infrastructure Investment…
Redirecting funds from cash transfers to essential infrastructure and services has far-reaching benefits:
1. Improved Healthcare.. Building and equipping hospitals ensures that people receive proper medical care, reducing preventable deaths and improving productivity. A healthy population is essential for economic growth.
2. Quality Education… Investing in schools, training centers, and vocational education empowers people with the skills they need to secure jobs and contribute to the economy. Education is a long-term solution to poverty, unlike cash handouts that provide only short-lived relief.
3. Employment Generation…. Infrastructure projects create jobs in construction, maintenance, and related industries. This not only provides immediate employment but also stimulates local economies and encourages entrepreneurship.
4. Economic Growth and Investment Attraction… Businesses thrive in environments with good roads, stable electricity, and efficient water supply. By prioritizing infrastructure, governments can attract investors, leading to more job opportunities and economic expansion.
5. Reducing Corruption and Inefficiency… Cash transfer programs are prone to fraud and favoritism. Investing in public goods ensures that resources benefit the entire population rather than being funneled into the pockets of a select few.
Breaking the Dependency Mindset…
Constant cash handouts do not solve poverty; they prolong it. Over time, they create a culture of dependency where people wait for government assistance instead of seeking opportunities for self-improvement. By contrast, access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure enables people to become self-reliant and contribute to national development.
Conclusion…
The government must move beyond short-term cash handouts and focus on long-term solutions that uplift the entire society. Sustainable development is built on access to quality public services, not temporary financial relief. By investing in infrastructure and essential services, we can create a future where people have the tools to succeed rather than relying on government handouts. It is time to prioritize meaningful development over political gimmicks.
Ikwue Odachi Theresa writes from Ichama District of Okpokwu, Benue State.
