U.S. Ambassador assists NGOs with $25,000 Grants

 
The United State Embassy in Nigeria, Friday provided Grants of $250,000 to assist 35 NGOs’ from 20 states in the Country.

The occasion tagged, ‘Signing Ceremony of Ambassador’s Small Grants program’ was attended by the U.S Ambassador in Nigeria, James Entwistle. In his speech, the Ambassador stressed on the importance of the grants to the development of the country, stating that it was targeted at assisting and partnering with Local NGOs’ in Nigeria in order to improve the living conditions of the Nigerians within their homes, towns and villages.
“The people of United States support small, community – based development projects in order to improve the living conditions of Nigerians within their hometowns and villages,” he said.
He however stated that the $250,000 given to the NGOs was for various projects to include the construction of classrooms, clinics, community centres and other community programs to help families living with HIV and AIDs and to enhance innovative projects that provides care as well as support to orphans, vulnerable children and their households.
He added that the program will motivate young Nigerians who will assist the country’s economic and social conditions.
“The united States wants Nigeria to thrive. Our direct assistance to improve basic economic and social conditions promotes a conscious responsibility to lift up society. And we are happy to help people who are trying to help themselves”, he said.
Congratulating the recipients, Entwistle said;“I congratulate each of today’s recipients for their proposals and the outstanding work that you will complete. The United States considers our support of your project as a significant investment in Nigerian people that will generate huge returns,” he said.
Dr. Henry David Katniyon, a beneficiary, told DailyPost that;“The Grant is to meet the needs of the community we serve, help fill the gaps of the needs of vulnerable children who cannot assess developments.
”We have seen the people, we are the people and we know the needs of the people”.
“We have passed through series of screening by the Embassy; they don’t throw their money on anyone. They must be sure of the accountability and the ability of an individual to work”, says, Katniyon from Plateau State.
Another recipient who spoke on behalf of her colleagues expressed gratitude to the Embassy for their support, assuring the U.S Government of transparency, accountability and greater achievements.
“On behalf of our colleagues, I assure the U.S Embassy that we will be transparent and accountable even beyond your expectations and we are going to bring out success stories,” she said.