A university lecturer from Kaduna State University, Godwin Kwalbe, has highlighted the need for the Nigerian government to adopt a comprehensive approach to tackle the multidimensional poverty affecting a significant portion of the country’s population. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Kwalbe cautioned against superficial measures that make poverty appear seasonal rather than a continuous issue.
According to Mr. Kwalbe, the removal of fuel subsidies has not only caused hardships for Nigerians but has also further pushed them down the poverty line. He emphasized that over half of the country’s population is structurally poor, with individuals being born into poverty and enduring a lifelong struggle.
While acknowledging the Federal Government’s efforts in implementing various palliative programs to address poverty, Mr. Kwalbe pointed out that most of these programs, with the exception of the conditional cash transfer program, only provide temporary relief rather than addressing the root causes of poverty.
“In this context, the palliatives are merely serving as painkillers and are not effectively addressing the underlying causes of poverty,” he explained.
To combat poverty effectively, Mr. Kwalbe advised the federal, state, and local governments to develop well-structured social welfare and social protection programs. He stressed the importance of comprehensive and continuous social protection programs that adhere to global best practices, rather than the current sporadic model.
He further emphasized the need for these social protection programs to target specific vulnerable groups such as the unemployed, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PwDs). Mr. Kwalbe proposed providing monthly allowances for life to senior citizens and PwDs, ensuring they have a consistent income source to support themselves.
Mr. Kwalbe also drew attention to the distribution of palliatives and highlighted the need to consider the salary packages for civil servants. He explained that in African culture, an individual’s salary often supports extended family members as well. Therefore, he urged the government to be sensitive to calls for an upward review of wages, considering the current national hardship.
By adopting a comprehensive and human rights-based approach to social protection, Nigeria can reduce the lifelong consequences of poverty and vulnerability experienced by its citizens. With a focus on targeted support for the most vulnerable groups, the government can make significant strides in eradicating poverty and improving the overall well-being of Nigerians.
– NAN
