Determinants of Household Poverty and Livelihood Diversification Among Rural Farming Communities in Yobe State, Nigeria

Abstract

Poverty in sub-Saharan Africa is persistent, multidimensional and spatially uneven, particularly in fragile dryland regions where climate variability intensifies livelihood vulnerability. In northeastern Nigeria, especially Yobe State, rural deprivation encompasses not only low income but also food insecurity, limited access to basic services, weak asset accumulation and inadequate housing. This study investigated the determinants of household poverty and evaluated the role of livelihood diversification in reducing both poverty incidence and depth among rural farming communities in Yobe State. A cross-sectional household survey of 414 farming households was conducted between June and August 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using the Foster–Greer–Thorbecke poverty indices, an adapted Alkire–Foster Multidimensional Poverty Index, the Simpson Index of Diversification, multivariate regression models and structural equation modelling. Spatial techniques were applied to examine geographic clustering of poverty. Results indicated severe deprivation: over 80% of households earn below ₦30,000 per month, more than 70% experience multidimensional poverty, and only 28% achieve acceptable food consumption levels. Access to irrigation, improved seeds and extension services remains critically limited. Livelihood diversification significantly reduces poverty depth and multidimensional deprivation. Regression and path analyses demonstrated that diversification mediates the poverty-reducing effects of education and credit access, while climate shocks exacerbate poverty through livelihood instability. The findings underscored the need for integrated interventions that enhance diversification, strengthen agricultural resilience and expand institutional support in dryland contexts.