The role of local governments in mitigating urban poverty in Lokoja South Local Government Area, Kogi State
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Urban poverty remains one of the most pressing challenges for local governments in Nigeria, particularly in rapidly growing urban areas such as Lokoja South Local Government Area (LGA), Kogi State. Urban poverty is characterized by inadequate access to basic services, housing, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, leading to low living standards and a lack of economic mobility for many residents (Adeyemo & Taiwo, 2023). Over the years, local governments in Nigeria have taken on the responsibility of addressing urban poverty through various policies and programs, but the success of these efforts remains a subject of ongoing debate. In Lokoja South LGA, the local government has launched initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of urban poor populations, including the provision of low-cost housing, access to microfinance, health programs, and skills development opportunities (Olufemi & Ibrahim, 2024). However, despite these efforts, the persistence of poverty in the region suggests that challenges such as poor implementation, inadequate funding, and poor coordination among local agencies may limit the impact of these policies (Usman & Bello, 2025). This study seeks to evaluate the role of local governments in mitigating urban poverty in Lokoja South LGA by assessing the effectiveness of the programs and strategies implemented to alleviate the socio-economic difficulties faced by urban dwellers.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The urban poor in Lokoja South LGA continue to experience significant challenges despite local government interventions aimed at poverty alleviation. While several initiatives have been implemented, there is little empirical evidence on the effectiveness of these programs in addressing the root causes of urban poverty. The persistent gaps in basic service provision, high unemployment rates, and poor living conditions suggest that the local government's poverty mitigation programs have been inadequate or poorly executed. A comprehensive evaluation of the local government's role in combating urban poverty is needed to identify the limitations and opportunities for enhancing the effectiveness of these programs and improving the welfare of urban populations in Lokoja South LGA.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
-
To assess the effectiveness of local government poverty alleviation programs in Lokoja South LGA.
-
To identify the challenges faced by the local government in mitigating urban poverty in Lokoja South LGA.
-
To recommend strategies for improving local government efforts to reduce urban poverty in Lokoja South LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
-
How effective are local government poverty alleviation programs in Lokoja South LGA?
-
What challenges does the local government face in mitigating urban poverty in Lokoja South LGA?
-
What strategies can the local government adopt to improve poverty alleviation efforts in Lokoja South LGA?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
-
Local government poverty alleviation programs in Lokoja South LGA have a significant impact on reducing urban poverty.
-
The challenges faced in mitigating urban poverty in Lokoja South LGA include inadequate funding and poor coordination among stakeholders.
-
Enhancing local government programs through better funding, policy alignment, and community engagement will reduce urban poverty in Lokoja South LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it will contribute to understanding the role of local governments in alleviating urban poverty in Nigeria, particularly in Lokoja South LGA. By evaluating the effectiveness of local government programs, this research will inform policymakers, local government officials, and development partners about the challenges and successes of poverty alleviation efforts. The findings of the study can serve as a guide for refining existing poverty reduction programs, ensuring they are more impactful in addressing the underlying causes of urban poverty. Additionally, this study will provide insights into how local governments can collaborate with non-governmental organizations and the private sector to strengthen poverty alleviation initiatives at the grassroots level.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on Lokoja South LGA in Kogi State, evaluating the local government’s role in mitigating urban poverty through various programs. The research will be limited to assessing urban poverty reduction initiatives such as microfinance schemes, housing projects, health programs, and employment creation strategies. The limitations of the study include potential challenges in obtaining comprehensive data from local government agencies and the risk of bias in responses from stakeholders.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
-
Urban Poverty: A condition in which individuals or households in urban areas experience a lack of access to basic services, employment, and economic opportunities, leading to low standards of living.
-
Poverty Alleviation Programs: Initiatives aimed at reducing poverty through the provision of basic services, economic opportunities, and social welfare.
-
Local Government: The administrative authority at the grassroots level responsible for delivering services and promoting development in specific geographical areas.
Related Project Materials
An Evaluation of Networking and Collaboration Among Small Business Owners: A Study of Event Planners in Kwara State
Background of the Study
Networking and collaboration are essential tools for the success of small businesses, especially in...
An Assessment of Inventory Control Techniques and Their Impact on Profitability in Nigerian Breweries, Bauchi State
Background of the Study
Inventory control plays a pivotal role in the management of production and distribution operations, particularly...
An Examination of Media Advocacy for Improved Educational Standards in Keffi LGA, Nasarawa State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Education is a cornerstone of societal dev...
Evaluation of the Role of Digital Learning in Bridging Educational Gaps in Rural Secondary Schools in Offa Local Government Area, Kwara State
Background of the Study
Education is a fundamental driver of socioeconomic development, yet disparities...
The Effect of Health Literacy on Medication Adherence Among Heart Disease Patients in Gombe State
Background of the Study
Heart disease remains a significant public health concern globally, contribut...
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES, TEACHER QUALITY AND STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS, NORTH CENTRAL ZONE, NIGERIA
Abstract
Educational services refer to the services available for teachers to improve their quality and promote teacher...
Effectiveness of Emotional vs. Rational Appeals in Advertising
Background of the study
Advertising appeals can generally be categorized as emotional or rational, each targeting differ...
The Impact of Nutrition Education on Childhood Obesity in Urban Areas of Borno State
Background of the Study
Childhood obesity has emerged as a growing public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in urban areas where li...
A review of visual storytelling on online consumer emotions: A case study of a lifestyle brand in Kano, Nigeria
Background of the study
Visual storytelling is a potent form of communication that combines imagery, narrative, and desi...
The effect of nurse-led education on reducing hepatitis B transmission among at-risk populations in Kaduna State
Background of the Study: Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, leading to chronic disease...
