Ex-Minister Disputes Federal Government's Responsibility for Nigeria's Multi-Dimensional Poverty

Former Minister of State for Finance, Budget, and National Planning, Clement Agba, disputed the notion that the Federal Government is accountable for Nigeria's multi-dimensional poverty affecting 133 million citizens. Agba stressed that state and local governments bear responsibility for addressing poverty by providing basic amenities like education, healthcare, water, and sanitation.

He oversaw the 2022 National Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index Survey, revealing that 63% of Nigerians are multi-dimensionally poor. Agba criticized the concentration of resources in urban centers, neglecting rural areas where poverty is prevalent.

He urged for an open government partnership to ensure transparency and sustainable poverty alleviation efforts. Agba also emphasized the importance of funding initiatives to combat poverty and called for a collaborative approach involving all levels of government.