Basic Needs in Nigeria

Abstract

The exploitation of oil resources in Nigeria in the 1970s brought about a rapid rate of economic growth, raising average per capita incomes to nearly $700, well in excess of most African countries.² Yet Nigeria’s performance on basic needs has been very poor. Life expectancy is between forty and forty-five;³ rates of infant mortality are very high (well over 100); most of the population suffers from chronic diseases; average levels of nutrition are below those set by the FAO; the rate of adult literacy is estimated to be around 20 per cent. The economic growth has had very little effect on basic needs. Standards of health and nutrition have changed very little over the past decade. Only in education has there been (quantitatively at least) any major progress.