Beware of Scams: Federal Government cautions Nigerians on fake palliative websites

The federal government has issued a warning about the proliferation of counterfeit online platforms claiming to be involved in palliative distribution across the country. The Minister of Trade, Industry, and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, revealed this alarming trend in a notice shared on her official handle on Monday.

Minister Uzoka-Anite highlighted that several unauthorized online platforms falsely associate themselves with the Presidential Palliative Programmes, charging individuals for supposed palliative distribution. She urged Nigerians to disregard such platforms and emphasized that the only legitimate channel for the palliative initiative is the one officially endorsed by the government.

In her statement, she said, “It has come to my notice that unauthorized platforms falsely claim association with the Presidential Palliative Programmes. I, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, Honourable Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment, urgently advise Nigerians to utilize only the official portal,  https://fedgrantandloan.gov.ng for authentic updates and applications.

“Protect your information. Avoid unauthorized channels. Rely solely on the verified website for accurate details regarding these vital initiatives. Also, do not pay anyone to process applications. It’s free.”

This cautionary notice comes in response to the rise of deceptive online activities targeting individuals seeking information and assistance related to government palliative programs. It underscores the need for vigilance and reliance on official government-endorsed platforms to ensure accurate details and prevent falling victim to scams.

As a reminder, in July, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced a N125 billion funding initiative for Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) under the Presidential Palliative Loan Programme, allocating N75 billion to MSMEs and an additional N75 billion to manufacturers.