Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has raised concerns over the level of poverty in Nigeria, saying more than 140 million Nigerians are currently living in poverty.
Obi made the claim while reflecting on Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary, using the figure to highlight the economic difficulties facing millions of citizens.
The World Bank’s recent poverty estimates have similarly indicated that about 63 per cent of Nigerians, representing more than 140 million people, are multidimensionally poor. The figure covers deprivation in areas including living standards, education, healthcare and employment.
Obi has previously cited the 140 million figure while criticising the economic situation under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In April, he said Nigeria’s poverty rate had risen to 63 per cent and described the situation as a serious national concern.
The poverty figure has become a major part of discussions about Nigeria’s economic performance, particularly amid concerns over inflation, food prices, unemployment and declining purchasing power.
The World Bank has also said poverty remained widespread despite recent improvements in some macroeconomic indicators, while stressing the need for stronger investment in human development and social protection.
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