$1bn HOPE-SP: It’s just another layer of vote buying – Rufai Oseni

Arise Television journalist Rufai Oseni has criticized the recently unveiled $1 billion Household Prosperity and Empowerment Social Protection Project, HOPE-SP, arguing it is merely another form of vote-buying ahead of the 2027 general elections. The initiative, launched alongside four others, aims to transition Nigerians from temporary relief to long-term economic empowerment through skills training, soft loans and other forms of assistance.

Oseni questioned the decision to introduce the program just six months prior to the elections, suggesting it serves as a layer of vote-buying akin to previous efforts. He expressed doubt about the sustainability of supporting businesses in an inflationary economy and doubted the viability of start-ups in a high-inflation market.

Oseni also called into question the government's ability to accurately identify and verify beneficiaries, given the alleged political bias in the existing social register. Additionally, he raised concerns over transparency, accountability, and potential misuse of funds if not properly audited and tracked, warning that direct transfers could be abused if beneficiary accounts were linked to political cronies.