ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has raised alarm over Nigeria’s worsening socio-economic conditions, warning that the country is slipping deeper into poverty, insecurity, and fiscal instability despite modest economic growth projections.
The warning was issued by the organisation’s Board of Directors at its 58th meeting, where it reviewed the state of the nation and expressed concern that recent economic gains are not translating into improved living standards for citizens.
In a statement signed by the Board Chair, Rabi Isma on Sunday, the organization cited findings from the World Bank, which claimed that more than ₦34 trillion, about 41 per cent of Nigeria’s total earnings, has been deducted through pre-allocation mechanisms in recent years.
According to the organisation, this has significantly limited funds available for national development.
AAN said, “ Although Nigeria’s economy is projected to grow by 4.4 per cent in 2026, up from 4.2 per cent in 2025, the figure remains below the African average, leaving the country exposed to oil price fluctuations and global economic shocks.
“ It also pointed to projections by the International Monetary Fund that Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio could rise to 33.1 per cent by 2027, underscoring mounting fiscal risks”.
It further highlighted that beyond macroeconomic concerns, there are persistent governance challenges, including what it described as chronic underfunding of key sectors such as education, health, and agriculture, areas it said remain below global benchmarks despite the size of the national budget.
The group also raised concerns about provisions in the Electoral Act 2026, warning that certain aspects could undermine transparency ahead of the 2027 general elections if not properly implemented.
On security and humanitarian conditions, the Board said ongoing violence and instability are displacing millions and worsening food insecurity. It referenced projections by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs indicating that nearly 35 million Nigerians could face acute food shortages during the 2026 lean season, particularly in the country’s northeast.
In response, ActionAid Nigeria called on the federal government to adopt inclusive economic policies aimed at improving purchasing power and livelihoods, especially for rural populations, women, and young people. It urged authorities to expand social protection measures, including cash transfers, and take steps to stabilise food and transport costs amid rising inflation.
The organisation also demanded greater transparency in public finance, including full disclosure of revenues and deductions before distribution, backed by independent audits and stronger anti-corruption enforcement.
