Nigeria's Bernard Doro Advocates for Human Capital Development

Bernard Doro, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, stated that Nigeria's strategy to reduce poverty must focus on human capital development. Speaking at the 2026 Annual National Conference of the Chartered Institute of Human Capital Development of Nigeria in Abuja, he highlighted that millions of Nigerians cannot escape deprivation without the necessary skills to enhance productivity.

Citing a 63 percent multidimensional poverty rate based on 2022 data, Doro stressed the importance of equipping citizens with skills to improve their livelihoods and contribute to economic growth. He noted that investments in human capital should begin from early childhood, particularly the first six years of life, which are critical for preparing individuals for productive futures.

The conference, themed “Accelerating Nigeria’s People, Productivity and Prosperity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” also featured Victor Dickson, who called for a reevaluation of human capital development in light of population growth and technological changes.