Over Half Populations In Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Bauchi Poor

Fresh data has highlighted a deepening economic crisis in Northern Nigeria, with four states recording severe poverty rates above 50 percent of their populations.

The 2025 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Country Briefing shows that the North-West and North-East regions still record the highest levels of deprivation across the country.

Kebbi State tops the list with a severe poverty rate of 52.7 percent, followed closely by Jigawa at 52.0 percent, Sokoto at 51.4 percent, and Bauchi at 50.8 percent. The figures indicate that more than half of the residents in these states are living in severe poverty.

Severe poverty, as defined by the MPI, reflects overlapping deprivations in critical areas such as health, education, and living standards.

The data, compiled and analysed by Statisense, further shows that the burden of extreme poverty is heavily concentrated in Northern Nigeria, with all 12 of the most affected states located there.q

The North-West zone dominates the rankings, with Zamfara recording 44.7 percent, Katsina 35.2 percent, and Kano 26.7 percent. Similarly, the North-East continues to face significant challenges, with Yobe at 43.6 percent, Gombe at 40.2 percent, and Borno at 31.1 percent.

Other states listed among the top 12 include Taraba with 25.4 percent and Niger with 22.8 percent.

The report underscores a widening regional development gap, despite ongoing social intervention efforts. Analysts say the persistence of high poverty rates points to deep-rooted challenges, including insecurity, inadequate educational infrastructure, and limited industrialisation across the affected regions.

Economists have warned that without targeted, state-specific policies addressing the unique challenges in the North-West and North-East, severe poverty will continue to hinder Nigeria’s overall economic growth.