The Role of Social Workers in Enhancing the Impact of Conditional Cash Transfers in Kogi State

Abstract

The Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme under Nigeria’s National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) was introduced to reduce poverty and build human capital among vulnerable households. However, its effectiveness has been constrained by weak human support systems. This study examined the role and limitations of social workers in enhancing the impact of the CCT programme in Kogi State, using a mixed-methods approach involving a survey of 318 beneficiaries and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. Findings revealed very low social worker engagement, with only 12.3% of beneficiaries reporting regular visits and 17.9% stating that such visits helped resolve their challenges. While the programme recorded modest gains in school attendance and nutrition, the overall economic impact on households remained limited. Heavy workload, lack of resources, inadequate training, and poor recognition were identified as major challenges faced by social workers. The study concludes that cash transfers alone are insufficient for sustainable poverty reduction. Professional social work intervention is critical for translating financial support into meaningful, long-term empowerment. The research highlights the urgent need to reposition social workers at the centre of social protection programmes in Nigeria through better resourcing, training, and institutional integration. These findings offer important lessons for strengthening the human dimension of social protection policy and practice.