Exploring Alternative Approaches to Addressing Multidimensional Poverty in Northern Nigeria

Economists have increasingly recognized poverty as a complex phenomenon, particularly since the 1970s, viewing it as a multifaceted issue characterized by interrelated and interdependent dimensions. Understanding this complexity and the interconnectedness of various forms of deprivation is crucial for developing effective poverty eradication policies. This understanding was reflected in the adoption of the Millennium Development Goals and later the Sustainable Development Goals between 2000 and 2015. Against this backdrop, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the political and economic factors contributing to the high rates of multidimensional poverty in Nigeria's northern region. It will examine long-term poverty trends, assess the effectiveness of poverty alleviation interventions by successive administrations, and explore alternative strategies for poverty mitigation, considering the multifaceted nature of poverty and the need for holistic approaches to address this complex issue.