Despite Nigeria’s wealth of natural resources and vast potential for economic growth, poverty continues to persist, especially in certain parts of the country. A significant number of Nigeria’s poorest states are located in the northern region, where residents struggle with insecurity, decaying infrastructure, weak public institutions, and poor human development indicators. While the government has initiated various intervention programs to address these issues, meaningful progress remains elusive, largely due to corruption, poor management, and a lack of long-term planning.
Below is a look at the ten poorest states in Nigeria, each facing its own social, economic, and security-related challenges.
1. Sokoto State
Poverty Rate: 87.73%
Region: North West
Capital: Sokoto
Population (2023): 5.52 million
Sokoto currently holds the unfortunate position of being Nigeria’s poorest state. Although agriculture forms the backbone of its economy, extremely high temperatures and weak irrigation systems hinder productivity. Ongoing security threats, including frequent bandit attacks, have displaced farmers and deepened food shortages. The state also grapples with poor infrastructure, high unemployment, and limited access to healthcare and quality education. It faces ongoing struggles to meet the basic needs of its people.
2. Taraba State
Poverty Rate: 87.72%
Region: North East
Capital: Jalingo
Population (2023): 3.27 million
Taraba is naturally endowed with abundant resources and fertile land suitable for farming, but security issues and underdeveloped infrastructure have hampered its growth. Persistent communal clashes have disrupted the economy, forcing many residents to rely on small-scale, low-yield farming. Limited access to healthcare and education continues to drive up poverty levels in the state.
3. Jigawa State
Poverty Rate: 87.02%
Region: North West
Capital: Dutse
Population (2023): 5.83 million
Since its creation in 1991, Jigawa has remained heavily dependent on agriculture. Unfortunately, outdated farming practices, poor rainfall, and inadequate healthcare and educational services remain significant obstacles. Mismanagement and corruption in the execution of government initiatives have worsened conditions, keeping a large portion of the population below the poverty line.
4. Ebonyi State
Poverty Rate: 79.76%
Region: South East
Capital: Abakaliki
Population (2023): 3.32 million
Ebonyi is the only state from Nigeria’s southern region to make this list, proving that poverty isn’t confined to a particular area. The majority of its people are involved in small-scale farming, but poor soil fertility and environmental degradation hinder agricultural yields. The state’s poor infrastructure and lack of essential services also continue to impact livelihoods, despite several government programs aimed at improving living conditions.
5. Adamawa State
Poverty Rate: 75.41%
Region: North East
Capital: Yola
Population (2023): 4.25 million
Adamawa’s economy, mainly driven by agriculture, has suffered greatly due to years of insurgency, particularly from the Boko Haram conflict. Security challenges and displacement have not only disrupted farming but also made it difficult for residents to access education and healthcare. A lack of investment in critical infrastructure worsens poverty across the state.
6. Zamfara State
Poverty Rate: 73.98%
Region: North West
Capital: Gusau
Population (2023): 4.52 million
Zamfara’s severe economic and social problems are closely tied to widespread insecurity, ballooning public debt, and poor educational opportunities. Constant banditry and communal violence have paralyzed farming activities. The growing number of out-of-school children also casts a shadow over the state’s future prospects.
7. Yobe State
Poverty Rate: 72.34%
Region: North East
Capital: Damaturu
Population (2023): 3.29 million
Yobe faces constant security challenges resulting from insurgency. Combined with poor infrastructure and limited access to healthcare and education, these issues have led to widespread displacement. For many residents, stability and productivity remain out of reach in the face of persistent threats and underdevelopment.
8. Kebbi State
Poverty Rate: 60.11%
Region: North West
Capital: Birnin Kebbi
Population (2023): 5.56 million
Kebbi State continues to battle with high unemployment rates, crumbling infrastructure, and rising infant mortality. Although some government initiatives have been introduced, corruption and poor governance have limited their success. Many communities still lack reliable access to clean water, electricity, and adequate healthcare services.
9. Gombe State
Poverty Rate: 62.31%
Region: North East
Capital: Gombe
Population (2023): 3.51 million
Despite its rich agricultural resources, Gombe suffers from serious infrastructural shortfalls and high rates of youth unemployment. Poor road networks hinder farmers’ access to markets, while an unreliable power supply and struggling education system have stifled entrepreneurship and economic development.
10. Bauchi State
Poverty Rate: 61.53%
Region: North East
Capital: Bauchi
Population (2023): 7.16 million
Bauchi is one of the most populous states among the poorest in Nigeria. While agriculture remains the dominant occupation, poor soil conditions, erratic rainfall patterns, and weak infrastructure impede growth. Underfunded health services and educational institutions continue to trap many residents in poverty.
