SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL ONE AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN NIGERIA (2015-2023)

This study examined the influence of Sustainable Development Goal One (SDG 1) implementation on poverty alleviation in Nigeria (2015–2023), with a focus on government poverty alleviation programmes and their socio-economic impacts on vulnerable populations. Employing a mixed-methods design, the study integrated quantitative data from official reports, including poverty headcount, Multidimensional Poverty Index, and programme participation statistics, with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with policymakers, programme implementers, and civil society actors, as well as focus group discussions with programme beneficiaries. Quantitative analyses, including descriptive statistics and time-series comparisons, revealed that despite increased programme coverage, national poverty rates rose from 46.3% to 57.3%, and multidimensional deprivation remained high, indicating limited macro-level impact. Qualitative findings demonstrated that beneficiaries experienced improved household welfare, access to education and healthcare, and skills acquisition, yet highlighted implementation challenges such as irregular disbursements, inequitable targeting, and weak institutional governance. The integration of quantitative and qualitative results suggests that while SDG 1-aligned interventions provide short-term relief and enhanced economic participation, structural factors including unemployment, regional disparities, and governance limitations constrain sustained poverty reduction. The study concludes that achieving SDG 1 in Nigeria requires holistic strategies combining social protection, skills development, and institutional reforms. Policy recommendations include strengthening programme governance and monitoring, linking skills training to sustainable economic opportunities, and adopting a multidimensional poverty framework to ensure inclusive and lasting poverty alleviation. These findings provide critical insights for policymakers, development agencies, and researchers seeking to enhance the effectiveness of SDG 1 interventions in Nigeria and similar developing country contexts.