Former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has raised alarm over Nigeria’s growing poverty levels, stating that the number of poor citizens today exceeds the entire population of the country in 1960. El-Rufai made the remarks during a public address on Monday, highlighting the economic and social challenges facing Nigerians.
“The reality is stark,” El-Rufai said. “We now have more citizens living in poverty than the total population of Nigeria at independence in 1960. This is a serious concern that demands urgent attention from both government and civil society.”
El-Rufai attributed the rise in poverty to multiple factors, including high unemployment, inflation, insufficient social support systems, and recurring conflicts in parts of the country. He emphasized that without strategic interventions, the situation could worsen, further deepening social inequality and economic instability.
Economists and social analysts have corroborated these concerns, pointing to rising food insecurity, limited access to quality education, and inadequate healthcare services as indicators of Nigeria’s growing poverty crisis. Northern states, particularly those affected by insurgency and communal conflicts, are among the hardest hit.
El-Rufai also called on policymakers to prioritize policies that stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve living conditions for vulnerable populations. He stressed that effective governance, targeted social programs, and sustainable development initiatives are crucial to reversing the trend.
Civil society organizations and international partners have echoed the former governor’s warnings, urging immediate action to prevent further deterioration of living standards across the country. The challenge, they say, is not only economic but also deeply social, affecting children, women, and marginalized communities the most.
As Nigeria continues to navigate economic and security challenges, El-Rufai’s statement serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need for coordinated efforts to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens.