POVERTY ERADICATION PROGRAM IN NORTHWESTERN NIGERIA: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

In Northwestern Nigeria, poverty is a significant barrier to both social and economic advancement. For sustainable development to occur in this area and across the country, it must be eradicated. The Northwest has a plethora of human and material resources, but it also suffers from an alarmingly high poverty rate that is a political disgrace. In spite of substantial financial commitments made by governmental and non-governmental entities at different levels, real progress in reducing poverty is still difficult. Proactive steps addressing management and accountability concerns are critical for the success of these endeavors. Because poverty is a complex issue, addressing it requires an all-encompassing strategy that puts the needs of the underprivileged first. For programs to operate as well as possible, current tactics for reducing poverty must be improved, and efficient management must be guaranteed. The paper addresses this issue by recommending rigorous evaluation and coordination of programs aimed at eradicating poverty prior to implementation, as well as the prosecution of corrupt officials involved in such initiatives in order to deter others and improve program effectiveness. The analysis highlights both opportunities and obstacles.