NIGERIAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION PROGRAMMES2015-2024: BEYOND THE PRESENT REALITIES -MYTH OR REALITY?

Abstract

This study critically examines the efficacy of poverty alleviation programmes in Nigeria between 2015 and 2024, focusing on their impact on poverty reduction and the structural challenges that hinder their success. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from 100 stakeholders, including government officials, beneficiaries, and experts in poverty alleviation, through a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire covered the implementation, outcomes, and challenges of key poverty alleviation programmes such as the National Social Investment Programmes (NSIPs), the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), and state-level initiatives. The study was guided by two research questions. Experts vetted the questionnaire, and a pilot test with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.85 verified its reliability. A 4-point Likert scale was used to measure the responses, with "Strongly Disagree" (1) and "Strongly Agree" (4) being the extremes. With mean scores above 2.5 signifying agreement and scores below 2.5 signifying disagreement, the decision point was fixed at 2.5. Findings found that while some projects, such as the N-Power and Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, have had small achievements, problems like as corruption, poor implementation, and fundamental economic issues have limited their overall impact. To increase the efficacy of initiatives to reduce poverty, the report suggests bolstering institutional frameworks, increasing openness, and tackling systemic problems like inequality and insecurity.