139 million Nigerians living in poverty despite economic reforms – World Bank

The World Bank has disclosed that about 139 million Nigerians are currently living in poverty, underscoring the deep-rooted socio-economic challenges still confronting the nation despite ongoing reforms.

Speaking during the launch of the Nigeria Development Update (NDU) report in Abuja on Wednesday, the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, noted that while the economy is beginning to show signs of stabilization, many Nigerians are yet to feel the impact of the government’s economic policies.

Verghis commended the Tinubu administration for introducing bold reform initiatives including steps to strengthen fiscal policy and stabilize the naira but cautioned that the benefits of these measures have not yet translated into improved living conditions for the majority of citizens.

“Over the last two years, Nigeria has tremendously implemented bold reforms — notably around the exchange rate and petrol subsidy,” Verghis said.

“These policies have laid the foundation for transforming Nigeria’s economic trajectory for decades to come.”

Verghis acknowledged that the reforms are beginning to yield macroeconomic results, including rising revenues, improving debt indicators, stabilising the foreign exchange market, growing reserves, and a gradual decline in inflation.

“Growth has picked up, revenues have risen, debt indicators are improving, the FX market is stabilising, reserves are rising, and inflation is finally beginning to come down. These are big achievements, and many countries would envy them,” he said.

Despite these gains, the World Bank warned that millions of Nigerians are yet to feel any real improvement in their daily lives.

“In 2025, we estimate that 139 million Nigerians live in poverty,” Verghis disclosed. “The challenge is clear: how to translate the gains from the reforms into better living standards for all.”

The new NDU report, titled “From Policy to People: Bringing the Reform Gains Home,” outlines a three-point strategy to help Nigeria bridge the gap between economic stability and social welfare taming inflation, improving public spending efficiency, and expanding social safety nets.

Verghis emphasised that food inflation remains one of the biggest threats to reform success and public confidence.

“Food inflation affects everybody, but particularly the poor, and it has the potential to undermine political support for reforms,” he cautioned.
“Tight monetary policy is important, but it must be complemented by structural reforms to address deep-seated supply and market constraints.”

He further stressed the importance of efficient resource use and inclusive programs that cushion the impact of economic adjustment.

“These are not abstract ideas they are practical steps that can turn macro-stability into better livelihoods,” Verghis said.

The World Bank, he added, remains committed to supporting Nigeria through policy advice, technical assistance, and financing aimed at ensuring that the gains of reform “reach every household, not just the headlines.”