ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECT OF FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL ON KWARA STATE HOUSEHOLD

ABSTRACT This study examines the economic impact of fuel subsidy removal on households in Kwara State, Nigeria. Using a mixed-methods approach, both primary and secondary data were collected from 350 households across the three senatorial districts—Kwara Central, Kwara South, and Kwara North. The research assessed how the removal of fuel subsidies has affected household income, expenditure patterns, standard of living, and poverty levels. Findings revealed that a majority of households have experienced a sharp rise in living costs, particularly in transportation and food expenses, leading to a decline in overall welfare. Many respondents indicated shifts towards alternative energy sources and reduced consumption of essential goods. The study concludes that while subsidy removal may have long-term macroeconomic benefits, it has caused immediate hardship among the poor and vulnerable in Kwara State. The research recommends that targeted social interventions, such as conditional cash transfers and investments in public transportation and energy alternatives, be prioritized to cushion the effects of subsidy removal. This study contributes valuable insights to policy debates on fuel pricing reforms and social protection in Nigeria