More than half the populations in Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Bauchi states live in severe poverty, according to the 2025 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Country Briefing. Kebbi records the highest rate at 52.7 percent, followed by Jigawa at 52.0 percent, Sokoto at 51.4 percent, and Bauchi at 50.8 percent. The data, analysed by Statisense, defines severe poverty as overlapping deprivations in health, education, and living standards. All 12 states with the highest poverty levels are located in Northern Nigeria, with the North-West and North-East regions bearing the greatest burden. Zamfara records 44.7 percent, Katsina 35.2 percent, and Kano 26.7 percent, while Yobe stands at 43.6 percent, Gombe at 40.2 percent, and Borno at 31.1 percent. Taraba and Niger states also feature in the top 12, with 25.4 percent and 22.8 percent respectively. The findings reveal a persistent regional development gap, even as social intervention programmes continue. Experts attribute the high poverty rates to insecurity, poor educational infrastructure, and lack of industrialisation. Economists stress the need for targeted, state-specific policies to address the unique challenges in these regions.
That Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Bauchi each have over 50 percent of their populations in severe poverty exposes the failure of broad, one-size-fits-all interventions. The fact that all 12 most affected states are in the North suggests policy approaches have not kept pace with regional realities. Without tailored investments in education, security, and local economies, poverty reduction efforts will remain symbolic. For millions in these states, economic survival continues to hinge on structural changes that have yet to arrive.
