THE ILLUSION OF MIDDLE CLASS IN RECENT NIGERIA BY YOMI SOWEMIMO, BASIT SANYAOLU, KUNLE J DANIEL & AYODEJI AKE

The argument of this session was that the purported existence of a thriving middle class in Nigeria must be viewed through a more nuanced lens. While certain demographic segments may exhibit some characteristics of middle-class living, the prevailing economic conditions, irregular income sources, declining purchasing power, and socio-political inequalities suggest otherwise. This reality serves to mask the deeper issues that need urgent attention: poverty reduction, economic diversification, and improvements in public services. As Nigeria moves toward its developmental goals, it is crucial for policymakers, researchers, and the public to recognise the complexities surrounding the middle class. Acknowledging the facade of middle-class prosperity will not only inform better policy-making but will also enable a more inclusive approach to addressing the underlying challenges faced by millions of Nigerians. Moreover, addressing these issues will require a concerted effort towards sustainable economic growth and an unwavering commitment to social equity. #Nigeria #MiddleClass #EconomicGrowth #PovertyReduction #SocialEquity #PublicServices #EconomicDiversification #PolicyMaking #Nigerians #SocioPolitical #IncomeInequality #SustainableDevelopment #InclusiveGrowth #DevelopmentGoals #MiddleClassIllusion #EconomicChallenges #NigerianEconomy #SocialJustice #ThoughtLeadership #NuancedPerspective #UrgentAction #ChangeMakers #FutureOfNigeria #Empowerment