Globalisation and Rural Poverty in Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the connection between globalisation and rural poverty in Nigeria, with a particular focus on the Niger Delta states, which are abundant in natural resources yet characterised by pervasive underdevelopment and poverty. The purpose was to assess the impact of the forces of globalisation on rural poverty, identifying the consequences for local communities. The paper adopted the descriptive/analytical approach and gathered data from Focus Group Discussions with groups of community members, representing different social and economic backgrounds. Other sources of information include published studies, books, journal articles, reports and documents from government agencies, local development organizations, and NGOs working in the region. The data were analysed qualitatively. Building on the theoretical foundation of Dependency and World Systems Theory, the findings show that although globalisation has prospects for economic growth through foreign investments and infrastructural development, its process has far-reaching implications for the rural population. In other words, globalisation frequently results in uneven growth, especially in areas that have an abundance of natural resources. Consequently, oil exploration and exploitation in the Niger Delta states by multinational companies has deepened poverty in rural communities owing to wanton destruction of means of livelihood. Based on these findings, the study recommended, among others, the promotion of inclusive economic policies that ensure the equitable distribution of wealth generated from globalisation, especially in the oil and gas sector.

Keywords: Dependency, globalisation, marginalization, poverty, rural poverty.

DOI: 10.7176/JRDM/95-07

Publication date: April 30^th 2025