Abasiokpon Udoakah

Research focus

My doctoral research focuses on how social capital can help alleviate poverty in Nigeria.

My drive is rooted in my vision for an Africa that thrives with equal wealth distribution and economic independence, rather than a continent defined by poverty, foreign aid reliance, and a ‘developing’ status.

Poverty is widespread in Nigeria, with 63% of the population (133 million people) classified as multidimensionally poor. This form of poverty encompasses deprivations in health, education, living standards, and security.

Social capital – the idea that interpersonal relationships provide valuable resources – remains underexplored in Nigeria, and I aim to investigate its potential for poverty reduction.

Research outcome

This research is personal to me. During national service, I was stationed in rural Nigeria, where I witnessed the struggles people face daily and met children and young people whose dreams were limited by a lack of access to essentials like food, water, healthcare, and education.

I hope my research will inform government policies and initiatives to alleviate poverty in Nigeria. After completing my PhD, I plan to pursue academia and continue making an impact, with a long-term interest in politics.