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Stakeholders begin two-day workshop on poverty index for economic planning
Stakeholders across key economic sectors from four North-Central states on Thursday in Abuja commenced a two-day workshop to examine Nigeria’s poverty index and explore its application in budgeting, policy formulation and economic planning.
The workshop, organised by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with Pinches Multi-Services Limited, attracted participants from Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau and the FCT, including statisticians, budget officers, development planners and academics.
Speaking at the opening, Oluwafemi Sadibo, principal consultant at Pinches Multi-Services Limited and workshop convener, said the initiative aimed to broaden stakeholders’ understanding of poverty measurement beyond income metrics.
He noted that findings from various national and international surveys had consistently shown that poverty in Nigeria remained widespread and multidimensional.
According to him, a clearer understanding of the poverty index—especially the Multidimensional Poverty Index—will help governments make informed decisions on resource allocation and development priorities.
Mr Sadibo explained that the MPI captures deprivations across critical sectors such as health, education and living standards, thereby providing a more holistic picture of poverty.
“Understanding the poverty index will guide better budget allocation and ensure that resources are directed to areas of greatest need. When resources are allocated equitably and efficiently, it will ultimately contribute to reducing poverty levels across the country,” he said.
He added that the workshop would facilitate knowledge exchange among participants from various states, with the goal of strengthening institutional capacity for data-driven planning.
Mr Sadibo said participants were expected to cascade the knowledge gained to relevant stakeholders and communities, thereby improving public awareness and fostering collective responsibility in tackling poverty.
He called on the federal government to sustain and scale up similar initiatives across other regions of the country, noting that increased awareness and the effective use of statistical data would enhance national efforts to reduce poverty.
Isa Muhammad of the Department of Economics at the University of Abuja said that about 83 million Nigerians were classified as multidimensionally poor in the 2022 MPI report. He described the figure as significant and indicative of the urgent need for targeted interventions.
Mr Muhammad identified living standards as a dominant factor driving poverty disparities across states, noting that issues such as inadequate housing, lack of access to clean water and electricity, poor sanitation, and limited access to healthcare contributed significantly to multidimensional poverty.
He also highlighted other contributing factors, including low levels of education, infrastructural deficits, food insecurity and unemployment.
Mr Muhammad restated the need for evidence-based policymaking, stressing that accurate data and proper interpretation of poverty indicators were critical to designing effective interventions.
Peter Siyan, also of the Department of Economics at the University of Abuja, said the workshop was aimed at shedding more light on the concept and drivers of multidimensional poverty.
He explained that poverty should not be viewed solely from the perspective of income or consumption, but rather as a condition characterised by multiple deprivations affecting individuals’ quality of life.
Mr Siyan further stressed that tackling poverty required coordinated efforts across sectors, including improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, employment generation and security. He noted that without addressing these underlying factors, efforts to reduce poverty would yield limited results.
(NAN)
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Showtime Bowl XIV: The Stage Is Set!’ Anyaorah Lotanna Eyes History As Bello Anuoluwapo Declares: ‘Champions Rise When It Matters Most’
The countdown to the biggest game in Nigerian flag football has entered its final stretch. With just five days to go until Showtime Bowl XIV, excitement is building across the country as the Abia-Warriors and Lagos Knights prepare for a championship showdown that promises to be one for the history books.
For the third consecutive season, the Warriors and Knights will battle for the Showtime Bowl trophy, extending a rivalry that has become the gold standard of Showtime Flag Football.
The Warriors arrive with history on their side.
The Knights arrive with redemption on their minds.
And as anticipation reaches fever pitch, another group of stars is beginning to command the spotlight.
This time, it’s Bello Anuoluwapo and Anyaorah Lotanna.
LOTANNA READY TO HELP REWRITE HISTORY
The Lagos Knights have spent the entire season chasing one goal—returning to the Showtime Bowl and finally ending the dominance of the Abia-Warriors.
After powering through the playoffs with a dominant Wildcard performance before eliminating the Lagos Rebels in the semi-finals, the Knights now stand just one victory away from completing their redemption story.
One of the driving forces behind that remarkable run has been Anyaorah Lotanna, whose speed, composure and big-play ability have made him one of the league’s most exciting performers.
With another championship opportunity now within touching distance, Lotanna believes the Knights are better prepared than ever before.
“Every player dreams about moments like this. We’ve worked for months to earn another shot at the Warriors. This isn’t just another final—it’s our opportunity to change history.”
Having twice watched the Warriors celebrate at their expense, the Knights know exactly what is at stake.
For them, Showtime Bowl XIV is more than a championship game.
It is an opportunity to erase years of disappointment and finally bring the trophy back to Lagos.
BELLO ANUOLUWAPO: ‘CHAMPIONS RISE WHEN IT MATTERS MOST’
Standing in their way is a Warriors side that has built its reputation on performing under pressure.
The defending champions booked their place in the final after defeating the Ibom Raptors 46-33, once again proving why they remain the benchmark of Showtime Flag Football.
Among the Warriors’ standout performers throughout the campaign has been Bello Anuoluwapo, whose consistency, leadership and ability to deliver in crucial moments have helped keep the champions on course for another title.
As the countdown continues, Bello insists the Warriors are embracing the challenge that comes with defending their crown.
“Champions rise when it matters most. We’ve earned the right to defend this title, and we’re ready for another battle. The Knights are a great team, but we’re focused on finishing the job.”
The confidence inside the Warriors’ camp is understandable.
Two consecutive Showtime Bowl titles.
Two championship victories over the Knights.
Now, they stand just one win away from completing a historic three-peat and further cementing their legacy as one of the greatest teams in Showtime history.
THE RIVALRY THAT DEFINES SHOWTIME
Every great league has a rivalry that defines an era.
For Showtime Flag Football, that rivalry is Abia-Warriors versus Lagos Knights.
Three consecutive championship appearances between the same two teams is unprecedented in Showtime history and a reflection of the excellence, consistency and winning culture both organizations have built over the years.
The Warriors are chasing history.
The Knights are chasing redemption.
And neither side is prepared to leave Showtime Arena empty-handed.
THE BIGGEST SHOW IN NIGERIAN FLAG FOOTBALL
Beyond the rivalry, Showtime Bowl XIV represents another milestone in the remarkable growth of Showtime Flag Football.
Season XIV has produced unforgettable moments, breakout stars, thrilling playoff battles and an ever-growing fan base that continues to embrace the excitement of co-ed flag football.
Week after week, Showtime has continued to raise the standard, providing a platform where athletes compete at the highest level while inspiring the next generation of Nigerian flag football players.
Now, the journey reaches its final destination.
One stadium.
One championship.
One trophy.
Five days remain until two giants collide once again.
Will the Warriors continue their dynasty and complete a historic three-peat?
Or will the Knights finally rewrite history and claim the title that has twice slipped through their fingers?
The answers await on Sunday, June 28, when the lights shine brightest at Showtime Arena, Elegushi, Lekki.
The countdown is on.
Five days to go.
Welcome to Showtime Bowl XIV.
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