The Coalition of United Political Parties has called for urgent measures to address Nigeria’s escalating poverty crisis.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 6, in Lokoja, the coalition’s National Secretary, Chief Peter Ameh, described the nation’s economic and humanitarian challenges, noting Nigeria’s position as having the highest number of malnourished children in Africa and the second highest globally.
Ameh cited the World Bank’s April 2025 report, stating, “The report reveals that 75.5% of rural Nigerians and 41.3% of urban dwellers live below the poverty line, with over 54% of the population, approximately 120 million people, struggling to survive in abject poverty.”
He added that this reflects an increase of 42 million people since 2018/19, when the poverty rate was 30.9%.
The statement highlighted the crisis’s impact on children, with 72.5% of those aged 0–14 living in poverty. Ameh also noted disparities linked to education: 79.5% of Nigerians without formal education are poor, compared to 25.4% with tertiary education.
Ameh attributed the crisis to structural issues, saying, “Nigeria’s heavy reliance on oil exports has left its economy vulnerable to global price fluctuations, while persistent inflation erodes purchasing power.
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“Low job creation, particularly in non-agricultural sectors, stifles economic mobility, and chronic underinvestment in education and infrastructure perpetuates a cycle of poverty.”
He criticised the government’s response, stating, “These systemic issues demand comprehensive reforms, yet the government’s response has often been inadequate, with the Presidency seemingly in denial about the severity of the situation.”
Ameh emphasised the need for targeted interventions, particularly in rural areas, saying, “The fact that 75.5% of rural dwellers now live below the poverty line underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions in rural areas, where access to basic services like healthcare, education, and clean water remains almost nonexistent.”
He added, “Urban poverty, while less severe at 41.3%, is equally concerning, as rapid urbanisation strains city resources and fuels inequality.
“The high poverty rate among children is particularly alarming, as it threatens to entrench intergenerational poverty, with malnourishment undermining physical and cognitive development.”
Describing the situation as a national emergency, Ameh called for coordinated efforts, stating, “By addressing structural inefficiencies, valuing the contributions of its brightest minds, and prioritising the well-being of its children, Nigeria can chart a path towards sustainable development.
“The time for excuses has passed, action is needed now to restore hope and dignity to millions of Nigerians.”