In 2022, an estimated 88.4 million people in Nigeria lived in extreme poverty.
Extreme poverty is generally defined as living on less than $1.90 U.S. dollars per day, an amount that reflects the minimum income needed to meet basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing. This measure, often adjusted for purchasing power parity, highlights a significant portion of Nigeria's population struggling to survive on severely limited resources. The pervasive nature of extreme poverty poses substantial challenges to the country's overall development and the well-being of its citizens.
Gender Disparity in Extreme Poverty
The burden of extreme poverty in Nigeria is significant across genders, with a nearly even distribution according to 2022 estimates.
| Demographic | Number of People (2022) |
|---|---|
| Total | 88.4 million |
| Men | Approximately 44.7 million |
| Women | Approximately 43.7 million |
This breakdown underscores that both men and women face profound economic hardship, with millions striving to subsist on less than the international poverty line. The slight difference suggests a widespread impact of poverty across all segments of the population.
Understanding the Challenge
Nigeria, as Africa's most populous nation and largest economy, faces a complex set of challenges contributing to widespread poverty. Factors such as rapid population growth, high unemployment rates, inflation, insufficient infrastructure, insecurity, and income inequality exacerbate the situation. The presence of such a large segment of the population in extreme poverty impacts various aspects of life, including:
- Human Development: Limited access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition, perpetuating a cycle of poverty across generations.
- Economic Growth: A reduced consumer base and limited human capital hinder sustainable economic development.
- Social Stability: Increased vulnerability to social unrest, crime, and health crises due to widespread deprivation.
Pathways to Poverty Reduction
Addressing extreme poverty in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach involving government policies, private sector engagement, and international cooperation. Key strategies often include:
- Economic Diversification: Reducing reliance on oil and fostering growth in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and technology to create more jobs and opportunities.
- Investment in Human Capital: Improving access to quality education, vocational training, and healthcare services to enhance productivity and employability.
- Social Safety Nets: Implementing and expanding programs such as cash transfers, food assistance, and public works schemes to provide immediate relief and support to vulnerable households.
- Infrastructure Development: Investing in critical infrastructure, including power, roads, and digital connectivity, to facilitate business growth and improve living standards.
- Good Governance and Security: Strengthening institutions, combating corruption, and enhancing security to create a stable and predictable environment for investment and development.
These efforts aim to lift millions out of poverty by fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that the benefits of economic progress reach all segments of society.
