Oxfam: 83m Nigerians survive on less than N3,100 a day
Oxfam, an international confederation of non-governmental organisations, has sounded the alarm over deepening inequality in Nigeria.
The organization warned that it continues to favour a privileged few while leaving the majority trapped in poverty.
John Makina, Oxfam’s Country Director in Nigeria, made the remarks in Abuja on Thursday during a policy dialogue titled “The Next 90%: Youth, Policy & A Fairer Nigeria”.
Makina said inequality was most visible in the political marginalisation of young people.
“There is currently no one under the age of 35 in Nigeria’s federal cabinet,” he noted.
“The reality is that the top 10 per cent controls an overwhelming 90 per cent of our country’s resources, and over 83 million Nigerians live on less than N3,100 ($2) a day.
“Including young people in government is a strategic choice for our nation’s future, our economy, and our peace.
“By giving young people a seat at the table, we can tap into their immense potential and build a stronger and more innovative country.”
He stressed that inequality in Nigeria is not inevitable, but the result of “deliberate policies and inaction by those in power.”
The Oxfam chief also drew attention to the marginalisation of women, pointing out that they make up only 4.2 per cent of elected officials in the National Assembly.
While women dominate rural agriculture, they own just 13 per cent of the country’s farmland.
Female literacy, he added, stands at 35 per cent compared to 59.5 per cent for men.
On Nigeria’s fiscal policy, Makina criticised the government for granting large corporations tax incentives that cost the country over N5 trillion in 2024, an amount equivalent to 18.5 per cent of the federal budget.
He called for sweeping reforms, including the introduction of wealth and excess profit taxes, stronger regulation of corporations, breaking monopolies, and greater investment in public services.
“To address youth challenges, we need progressive labour policies that promote decent work and fair pay. Raising the national minimum wage to reflect the real cost of living is a good start,” he said.
Makina further noted that around 65 per cent of Nigeria’s workforce operates in the informal economy.
He argued that formalising these businesses through access to credit, training, and social protection would boost economic inclusion.
“Reducing vulnerable employment, which affects 55 per cent of young Nigerians, is also vital,” he said.
“Encouraging small and medium-sized enterprises through simplified registration, tax incentives, training, and credit support can help.”
