Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the rising poverty levels in Nigeria, describing it as one of the nation’s most pressing challenges that continues to undermine development and stability.
In a message posted on his verified X handle on Saturday to mark the International Day for Poverty Eradication, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it was disheartening that Nigeria remains among the world’s poorest nations despite its vast human and natural resources.
Atiku noted that poverty in Nigeria has continued to breed multiple crises, including disease, ignorance, insecurity, and a general sense of hopelessness among citizens. He described poverty as “humanity’s greatest enemy,” stressing that urgent, people-focused policies are needed to reverse the trend.
“Wherever poverty takes root—whether in an individual’s life or across society—it gives rise to other challenges like disease, ignorance, insecurity, and despair,” he stated.
The former Vice President urged federal, state, and local governments, along with civil society organisations and development partners, to intensify efforts in implementing sustainable solutions that empower citizens and build resilient communities.
“At both government and community levels, we must take the fight against poverty to every home, every community, and every school, so that the ordinary Nigerian becomes part of the solution,” Atiku added.
His remarks come amid a recent World Bank Nigeria Development Update report, which revealed that about 139 million Nigerians are currently living in poverty, a situation worsened by surging food prices and persistent insecurity across the country.