Multidimensional Poverty and Coping Strategies Among Farming Households in Northwestern Nigeria

Multidimensional poverty continues to pose a major development challenge in Nigeria, despite the nation's abundant economic potential and numerous poverty alleviation initiatives. This study examines the determinants and dimensions of multidimensional poverty among farming households in North-western Nigeria by analysing its intensity, drivers, and coping strategies. Using data collected from 270 farming households, the study employed descriptive statistics and the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) developed by Alkire and Foster (2011). The results revealed that 58% of households are multidimensionally poor, with an average deprivation intensity of 53%. The computed MPI value of 0.3074 underscores the severity of poverty in the region. Major deprivations were observed in education, sanitation, and asset ownership. Weak governance, low educational attainment, poor access to basic amenities, insecurity, and environmental degradation emerged as significant drivers of multidimensional poverty. Coping mechanisms adopted by farming households included farm diversification, engagement in off-farm activities, skill acquisition, and informal borrowing. The findings highlight that multidimensional poverty among farming households in North-western Nigeria is both widespread and deep, driven by structural and institutional weaknesses. Addressing it requires integrated policy approaches that strengthen governance, enhance access to quality education and healthcare, improve rural infrastructure, and expand livelihood opportunities. Finally, poverty alleviation policies should move beyond income-based measures to address the overlapping deprivations limiting human capability and productivity. Empowering farming households through inclusive, multi-sectorial, and participatory development interventions is essential for achieving sustainable rural transformation and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.