Benue State University, Makurdi

Enhancing Nigerian Women’s Productivity Through Poverty Alleviation: Issues and Evaluations

U.D. Ikoni, Esq

Abstract

The problem ofpoverty remains one of the main challenges, which will continue to confront mankind even at the dawn of the 21 century. However the extent, severity and characteristics may vary greatly within and across countries of the world, and as they affect different social groups. In spite of the wide diversity of poverty amongst the countries of the world, gender remains a dividing line, a key determinant of vulnerability of poverty almost everywhere especially in developing countries. This has been a major source of concern for activist of the advancement of equal rights of man and woman and promotion of social justice in the society. This paper presents a critical evaluation of gender as a determinant of poverty especially among women in Nigeria. In a succinct form, practical approaches to major poverty eradication strategies are advanced. Thus, promotion of productive employment which constitutes a key strategy for sustainable poverty alleviation, deliberate and positive action by women organizations and participation in policy formulations are all imperative if an effective breakthrough is to be made in the fight to eradicate or reduce gender-based poverty in Nigeria. The paper finally argues for a recognition of the inter linkages between the social, economic, legal and political spheres of action for effective eradication of poverty and forcefully advocates the complementarities of all to enhance an improved well-being of women and equal opportunities of men and women in our society.

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