NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN NIGERIA: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

This study examines challenges and prospect of Non-Governmental Organisations and poverty alleviation in Nigeria. It examines the strategies employed by NGOs in alleviating poverty, analyse the effectiveness and sustainability of NGO programs in addressing systemic poverty issues and identify the challenges faced by NGOs in implementing poverty alleviation initiatives. This study employed a descriptive survey design to examine the role of NGOs in poverty alleviation in Ogun and Lagos States. Using purposive and convenience sampling, data were collected from 120 respondents through structured questionnaires. Both primary and secondary data were utilized. Descriptive statistics guided the analysis, while the instrument’s validity and reliability were ensured. The study found that NGOs use diverse strategies like microfinance, education, and health outreach to alleviate poverty, with positive short-term results. However, sustainability remains a concern. Challenges such as funding gaps, insecurity, corruption, and weak community trust hinder long-term impact and limit the effectiveness of NGO interventions in Nigeria. The conclusion emphasizes that NGOs play a vital role in poverty alleviation, especially in underserved areas, through impactful interventions. However, long-term success is hindered by funding gaps, weak institutional support, and operational challenges. Sustainable poverty reduction requires collaboration between NGOs, government, and communities, alongside policy reforms and strong institutional frameworks.