An Exploratory Study on Communication, and Poverty Alleviation in Nigeria: Prospects and Challenges

Abstract

Poverty is a prevalent global developmental challenge recognised by the United Nations (UN) as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and the desire to eradicate it is identified as goal number one (No Poverty). The challenges and setbacks to achieving poverty alleviation in Nigeria are multifaceted, including political, economic, and in some cases communication-related. Communication plays a role in promoting knowledge, social inclusion, and national development programmes. Consequently, where there is a communication gap, it is likely to result in an interruption in the attainment of poverty alleviation objectives. Nigeria is a peculiar reference case with respect to poverty prevalence. The country accounts for one of the highest numbers of poor people worldwide. Nearly half of Nigeria’s 200 million population are living below the international poverty line of $1.9 per day. This study examined the role of communication in poverty alleviation in Nigeria. Development media theory underpinned the study. The study identified media ownership structure, political concern, media bias, or lack of interest as part of the communication constraints acting as limiting poverty alleviation efforts in Nigeria. It recommends leveraging existing and new communication strategies, techniques, and approaches, beyond the traditional media, toward achieving the goal of eradicating extreme poverty by the year 2030.