Poverty Alleviation Programme and Socio-Economic Development in Nsukka Local Government of Enugu State 2020-2023

AbstractThis study investigates the influence of Poverty Alleviation Programmes (PAPs) on socio-economic development within the Nsukka Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State, covering the period from 2020 to 2023. Despite substantial investments in poverty reduction, the efficacy of these programs at the grassroots level remains a critical subject for empirical evaluation. This research aimed to examine the correlation between the implementation of targeted government and state-led initiatives and measurable improvements in community well-being indicators. The study adopted an analytical approach, utilizing quantitative data derived from local employment surveys, educational reports, and official government statistics on key metrics and program participation rates.The findings establish a positive and significant relationship between PAPs and socio-economic development in the LGA. Specifically, the focused implementation of vocational training, agricultural programs, and microfinance initiatives yielded substantial results: the youth employment rate increased from 55.0% in 2020 to 64.0% in 2023, and the overall literacy rate grew from 65.0% to 75.0% over the same four-year span. High participation rates, exemplified by the N-Power and Micro-Credit Schemes, were found to be crucial to these developmental gains. The research concludes that these targeted interventions are a highly effective catalyst for improving local living standards. It recommends the sustained funding, expansion, and enhanced coordination of such programs to ensure long-term, inclusive socio-economic progress in Nsukka LGA.