The Kaduna State House of Assembly has passed the Social Security Scheme Bill into law, which aims to strengthen and expand the existing framework for social welfare and addressing the needs of vulnerable groups in the state.

The report on the bill presented by the Chairman of the House Joint Committee on Special Duties and Judiciary introduces enhanced provisions for financial assistance, healthcare access, unemployment benefits and other essential support services to the elderly, retirees, persons with disabilities, low-income families, and other marginalised groups.

In a statement, the Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Dahiru Liman, said the passage of the amended bill reflects the Assembly’s commitment and the Governor Uba Sani-led administration’s commitment to advancing social welfare programmes and addressing income disparity, ultimately aiming to uplift the standard of living across the state.

According to him, with this law now in place, the government can further develop initiatives to reduce poverty, protect the vulnerable and create a more inclusive Kaduna State.

The house also passed into law the third supplementary appropriation of funds for the Government of Kaduna State for the year 2024, in the sum of N207.2 billion.

Additionally, the bill for a law to establish the Kaduna State Tourism, Museum, Landscape Park, and Recreational Services Board, 2024, passed its second reading.

The establishment of the board, according to the speaker, is expected to stimulate economic growth by creating job opportunities, supporting local businesses and encouraging investments in the tourism sector.