A new report has laid bare the stark economic reality facing millions of Nigerians, with Sokoto, Taraba, and Jigawa States ranked among the top 10 poorest states in the country. The analysis, based on findings from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and insights from development experts, paints a troubling picture of how deep-rooted issues like insecurity, poor infrastructure, and weak institutions are fueling widespread poverty in certain regions.
According to the NBS’s 2023 Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), over 63% of Nigerians (133 million people) are multidimensionally poor — and a disproportionate number of these live in the northern states.
Top 10 Poorest States in Nigeria (as per MPI & poverty rate):
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Sokoto
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Taraba
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Jigawa
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Kebbi
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Yobe
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Zamfara
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Bauchi
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Kano
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Gombe
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Niger
“The poverty levels in these states reflect not just income deficiencies but also deficits in education, healthcare, nutrition, and access to basic infrastructure,” — National Bureau of Statistics, 2023
Why Are These States So Poor?
1. Insecurity and Conflict
Many of the poorest states — particularly Sokoto, Zamfara, Taraba, and Yobe — have suffered from years of armed banditry, insurgency, and ethnic violence. This has displaced thousands of people and made farming, schooling, and normal economic activities nearly impossible.
2. Poor Infrastructure
Road networks, electricity supply, access to clean water, and healthcare systems are severely underdeveloped in most of these regions. Without basic infrastructure, investment is discouraged and businesses are stifled.
3. Weak Governance and Institutions
According to a World Bank 2022 assessment, many sub-national governments in northern Nigeria suffer from weak administrative capacity, corruption, and poor policy implementation. This hinders development, reduces service delivery, and perpetuates cycles of poverty.
4. Low Literacy and Education Gaps
Several of these states record the highest number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, particularly among girls. UNICEF estimates that over 10.5 million Nigerian children are out of school — most of them from the North.
The Impact of Poverty in These States
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Food insecurity: Many households can’t afford three meals a day.
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Health crises: Limited access to hospitals leads to preventable deaths.
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Youth unemployment: High joblessness among young people is feeding into crime, migration, and radicalization.
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Gender inequality: Girls and women are disproportionately affected by poverty, early marriage, and lack of access to education.
What Needs to Change?
🔧 1. Investment in Infrastructure
Roads, electricity, water systems, and schools must be prioritized to attract investment and improve livelihoods.
🛡️ 2. Security Stabilization
Federal and state collaboration with security agencies is crucial to restore peace and confidence in these communities.
📚 3. Education and Health Access
Massive public sector investment is needed in basic education and primary healthcare to lift communities out of generational poverty.
💼 4. Strengthen Institutions
Governance reforms to improve accountability, transparency, and local government capacity will be key to driving real change.
A National Concern
While the poverty burden is heavier in some regions, poverty is a national challenge that threatens Nigeria’s unity, peace, and long-term development. A more equitable distribution of resources, inclusive economic policies, and grassroots development are essential to bridge the regional gap.
Conclusion: Time for Action
The revelation of Nigeria’s 10 poorest states is a wake-up call for both government and citizens. Tackling poverty must go beyond political rhetoric — it demands strategic investment, transparency, and community-driven solutions.
Until insecurity is addressed and infrastructure development is made a priority, millions in states like Sokoto, Taraba, and Jigawa will continue to live below acceptable human standards.
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Last Updated on May 2, 2025 by kingstar
