Why Nigeria Has Africa’s Largest Number of People Living in Extreme Poverty
Nigeria has the largest number of people living in extreme poverty in Africa, according to the World Bank’s April 2025 Africa’s Pulse report. The report estimates that Nigeria accounts for 19% of extremely poor people in Sub-Saharan Africa, ahead of DR Congo, Ethiopia and Sudan. The World Bank estimates that about 106 million Nigerians live in extreme poverty. Its Nigeria Development Update also reported that national poverty rose from 40% in 2018/19 to 56% in 2022/23, affecting about 113 million people. The Bank projects the broader national poverty rate could reach 62% in 2026 before easing slightly in 2027. High food prices, transport costs, electricity and fuel expenses have weakened household incomes. The 2023 fuel-subsidy removal and naira reforms increased living costs, while economic growth has not kept pace with population growth. Rural and northern households remain especially exposed because of insecurity, weaker infrastructure and limited access to markets. The Federal Government has challenged what it describes as exaggerated interpretations of the figures and says its reforms are aimed at stabilising the economy. Still, the data underline the urgent need for better-paying jobs, lower food costs and stronger support for vulnerable households.
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