Advancing social and economic inclusion in North-East Nigeria

Context

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, faces persistent socio-economic challenges, particularly in the North-East. Since 2009, violent insurgencies by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province have caused over 36,000 deaths and displaced 2.1 million people. This displacement has strained local resources, worsened food insecurity, and deepened poverty.

Women and marginalised groups are most affected, with limited access to financial resources and employment opportunities. Socio-cultural norms restrict women’s participation in the economy and expose them to gender-based violence, exploitation, and early marriage. Weak social cohesion and distrust in government further worsen the crisis.

Objective

Vulnerable populations in North-East Nigeria have equitable access to social protection systems, enhanced social participation, and improved economic inclusion.

Approach

The project implements targeted measures to improve social and economic participation in North-East Nigeria:

• It facilitates dialogue among women about gender roles and raises awareness of gender equality among men, including traditional and religious authorities.
• The project works with state ministries, local authorities, and civil society organisations to integrate development planning into municipal, regional and state budgets.
• It provides support to women in agriculture to challenge gender-based stereotypes and improve their economic participation.
• The project assists state institutions in creating transparent social protection systems. Pilot initiatives, include poverty graduation programmes and shock-responsive mechanisms to address droughts or natural disasters.

Last update: April 2025