Background of the Study
Poverty remains one of the most pressing challenges in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where access to basic amenities, economic opportunities, and social welfare services is limited (Adebayo & Yakubu, 2024). The Nigerian Constitution (1999, as amended) provides a framework for poverty alleviation, social justice, and economic empowerment, mandating the government to ensure the welfare and security of its citizens (Usman & Ibrahim, 2024). Despite these provisions, rural poverty persists due to weak policy implementation, corruption, economic mismanagement, and infrastructural deficits (Olawale & Ahmed, 2023).
Lafia Local Government Area, located in Nasarawa State, is a predominantly agrarian region where economic deprivation, limited access to financial resources, and inadequate government intervention continue to undermine poverty reduction efforts (Bello & Yusuf, 2024). The effectiveness of constitutional provisions and government-led poverty alleviation strategies remains a subject of debate, as many initiatives fail to reach marginalized rural populations due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, political interference, and lack of accountability (Adamu & Bello, 2024). This study explores the role of constitutional law in shaping rural poverty alleviation strategies and evaluates the effectiveness of government interventions in Lafia LGA.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite numerous constitutional provisions, policies, and programs aimed at reducing poverty, rural communities in Nigeria, including Lafia LGA, Nasarawa State, continue to experience economic hardships, food insecurity, and inadequate social infrastructure (Adebayo & Yakubu, 2024). Government-led poverty alleviation strategies often fail due to policy inconsistencies, lack of proper legal enforcement, and corruption in resource allocation (Abdullahi & Musa, 2024). This study investigates whether constitutional law effectively influences rural poverty alleviation and identifies key legal and policy gaps that hinder socioeconomic development in Lafia LGA.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To examine the role of constitutional law in rural poverty alleviation strategies in Lafia LGA.
To assess the effectiveness of government-led poverty reduction programs in Lafia LGA.
To identify challenges and recommend solutions for improving poverty alleviation policies.
1.4 Research Questions
How does constitutional law influence rural poverty alleviation strategies in Lafia LGA?
What are the challenges affecting the implementation of poverty alleviation programs?
What constitutional and policy reforms can enhance poverty reduction efforts?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
H₀: Constitutional law has no significant impact on rural poverty alleviation in Lafia LGA.
H₁: Weak enforcement of constitutional provisions contributes to persistent rural poverty.
H₂: Strengthening constitutional implementation will lead to effective poverty alleviation strategies.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is valuable for policymakers, development agencies, and scholars, offering insights into the constitutional and legal dimensions of poverty alleviation. It provides evidence-based recommendations to enhance policy effectiveness, legal enforcement, and governance mechanisms aimed at reducing poverty in rural areas.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, focusing on constitutional poverty alleviation frameworks and policy implementation strategies.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Poverty Alleviation: Strategies and policies designed to reduce economic deprivation and improve living conditions.
Constitutional Law: The legal framework governing social, economic, and political policies.
Rural Development: Government initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and infrastructure in rural communities.
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