The United States Embassy in Nigeria on Friday awarded $221,902 grants to local non-governmental organisations covering 14 states for community-based projects under the 2018 Ambassador’s Small Grants Programme.
Speaking at the award ceremony in Abuja, the Deputy Chief of Mission, David Young said the funds is expected to cover 27 projects ranging from construction of classrooms, health clinics to community centres and boreholes.
“Some of this funding will also benefit orphans and vulnerable children, as well as key populations and communities living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, and through addressing economic, nutritional, and hygienic needs,” he said.
Young said that the initiatives would help improve access to education and health services for vulnerable children and communities at risk.
The envoy said the awards were designed to assist communities through small-scale development projects directed at improving basic living conditions at the grassroots level.
He said that U. S. was committed as a partner, to ensure that Nigeria thrives economically and socially.
“We believe that investing here in Nigeria is an investment in our global community that affects us and helps us in United States as well.
“Our direct assistance to improve basic economic and social conditions at the local community or village level promotes a conscious responsibility to lift up society,” Young added.
Mr Rex Ajenifuja, who spoke on behalf of the recipients, thanked the U.S. government and assured timely delivery of the projects.