Nigeria’s poverty crisis continues to deepen despite the ambitious economic reforms rolled out by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, according to a new report by the World Bank.
The report estimates that over 139 million Nigerians now live below the poverty line — a figure that has sparked widespread concern about the real impact of the government’s policies.
Despite key reforms such as fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and revenue restructuring, the World Bank says millions of Nigerians are yet to feel the positive effects. Instead, rising inflation and food prices have pushed more households into financial distress.
💡The data highlights a widening gap between urban and rural communities. In rural Nigeria, about 75.5% of citizens reportedly live below the poverty line, compared to significantly fewer in urban areas.
Economic experts say that while the reforms may stabilize the economy in the long term, the short-term effects are biting hard on everyday Nigerians who are grappling with record inflation, job losses, and high living costs.
However, the Presidency has rejected parts of the World Bank’s findings, arguing that the figures are based on outdated survey data and global benchmarks that may not reflect Nigeria’s true economic reality. Officials insist that several relief programs — such as palliative distributions and youth empowerment initiatives — are underway to cushion the impact on vulnerable households.
Still, the World Bank maintains that immediate social interventions are crucial to prevent more Nigerians from slipping into extreme poverty.
📊According to the Bank, Nigeria’s poverty rate has climbed from about 40% in 2018/2019 to an alarming 56% in 2024. It also warns that unless inclusive growth measures are prioritized, the benefits of Tinubu’s reforms may take years to reach the grassroots.
For millions of families, daily survival has become increasingly difficult. Many are calling for stronger social safety nets and policies that focus on job creation, affordable food, and education.
The report has reignited debate over whether Nigeria’s current economic direction is sustainable for ordinary citizens — or if deeper structural changes are needed.
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