By our reporter
More than half of Nigeria’s population is now living in poverty, according to the latest figures from the World Bank and the National Bureau of Statistics. The report reveals a sharp rise in economic hardship, with millions of Nigerians struggling to meet their daily needs, particularly when it comes to feeding themselves and their families.
As of 2024, an estimated 56 percent of Nigerians are living below the national poverty line. This translates to roughly 129 million people who cannot afford the basics of life. The situation is even more alarming when viewed through the global poverty standard, which shows that about 46 percent of Nigerians live on less than $2.15 per day.
The deepening crisis is not just about income, but also about food insecurity. A recent household survey conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics with support from the World Bank shows a widespread inability among Nigerians to access healthy and nutritious meals. Nearly two-thirds of households reported that in the past month, they could not afford to eat balanced or preferred foods due to financial constraints. Many had to limit their diets to just a few types of food, and a significant number said they often worried about running out of food altogether.
The study highlights that more than 60 percent of Nigerians ate less than they should in order to stretch their limited resources. These daily sacrifices point to a growing nutrition crisis across the country, with consequences that extend far beyond hunger. Health experts warn that poor diets, especially among children and pregnant women, can lead to long-term health issues, stunted growth, and increased vulnerability to disease.
Although some media reports have cited that 27 percent of Nigerians cannot afford a healthy meal even if they spend all their income on food, this specific figure has not been directly confirmed by the World Bank. However, the broader data clearly shows that the majority of the population is unable to meet basic nutritional needs, regardless of how much of their income is spent on food.
The economic pressures driving these trends are complex and persistent. Inflation continues to weaken purchasing power, while unemployment and underemployment remain widespread. The recent removal of fuel subsidies and currency reforms, though aimed at stabilizing the economy in the long term, have contributed to rising living costs in the short term.
As more Nigerians fall into poverty, the need for effective policy intervention becomes urgent. Economists and development experts are calling on the government to expand social protection programs and invest in sectors that can drive inclusive growth, such as agriculture, infrastructure, and small-scale enterprises. Without immediate action, Nigeria risks entrenching a cycle of poverty and malnutrition that could take years to reverse.
