In light of the latest World Bank projections, ActionAid Nigeria has condemned the Federal Government for its lack of action in addressing the escalating poverty crisis, labeling it a “national disgrace.”
According to the World Bank’s Africa’s Pulse report, Nigeria’s poverty rate is expected to rise by 3.6 percentage points by 2027, with 106 million Nigerians currently living on less than $2.15 a day. The report highlights that Nigeria accounts for 15% of the world’s extremely poor population.
ActionAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, stated in a recent press release in Abuja that the alarming increase in poverty rates can be attributed to deliberate policy decisions, ongoing governance failures, and widespread corruption across various levels of government.
“Nigeria’s governance remains its greatest challenge,” he emphasized, pointing to the World Bank’s evaluation of Nigeria’s inadequate performance concerning government effectiveness, accountability, and political stability. The report indicates that public institutions are struggling to manage resources and provide essential services.
Mamedu also expressed concern that the Presidency, National Assembly, and other governmental bodies continue to prioritize luxury spending over the needs of the impoverished, citing recent budgets for high-end vehicles and office renovations while millions continue to suffer.
