A Systematic Assessment of Anti-poverty Programmes in Nigeria

Abstract

The rising poverty level in Nigeria since 1999 prompted the designing and implementation of different anti-poverty programmes to assist the poor to escape poverty. This study systematically assesses the impact of these interventions. A systematic search was conducted electronically for qualitative studies that used mixed method analysis. Inclusion criteria were met with eight studies. All the included studies used interviews as methods of data collection. Income, entrepreneurial development, expenditure, job opportunities, welfare, access to health and education, empowerment and quality of life were the domains reported by the studies reviewed. There is evidence of anti-poverty programmes in reducing poverty among poor households. There is weak evidence suggesting anti-poverty programmes have a positive impact on household expenditures, employment, income, agricultural development and the quality of life of beneficiaries. There is negative evidence showing that anti-poverty programmes not impacting on access to health and education and the affordability of health services and education. Despite the not too impressive results, anti-poverty programmes can act as tools for mitigating poverty if were planned and implemented.

Key Words: Anti-poverty programmes, intervention, microcredit, Nigeria, poverty