Story perspectives

Experts Warn: Nigeria's Growth Fails to Alleviate Poverty

10/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

ActionAid Nigeria reports Nigeria's economy is projected to grow 4% by 2027, yet more than half the population lives below the poverty line.
Food inflation remains a significant issue, particularly in northern regions where over 80% of people live in poverty.
Economic reforms have stabilized the macroeconomy but have not improved household welfare.
Experts call for targeted policies to address food access and security and for a National Poverty Summit to unify efforts against poverty.
The World Bank warns that without effective social protection and fiscal accountability, gains may remain fragile.

History

Historical Context

In the 1980s, Nigeria shifted from an agriculture-based economy to one reliant on oil, leading to economic instability. In 1986, under General Ibrahim Babangida, Nigeria adopted Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) linked to an IMF loan, aiming for economic reform. Despite a 4% GDP growth by 1990, over 60% of Nigerians lived in poverty, a trend that persists today, particularly in the north.

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Story summary

ActionAid Nigeria reports Nigeria's economy is projected to grow 4% by 2027, yet more than half the population lives below the poverty line.
Food inflation remains a significant issue, particularly in northern regions where over 80% of people live in poverty.
Economic reforms have stabilized the macroeconomy but have not improved household welfare.
Experts call for targeted policies to address food access and security and for a National Poverty Summit to unify efforts against poverty.
The World Bank warns that without effective social protection and fiscal accountability, gains may remain fragile.

1 / 2