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Intervention Policies of Akwa Ibom State Government: Poverty, Unemployment and Rural Development

Hope Udoma Samuel, Dr. Augustine Afangide Udonsek and Geoffrey Okon Charles

Abstract

The Akwa Ibom State Government in Nigeria has implemented a range of intervention policies aimed at addressing key socio-economic issues including poverty, unemployment, and rural development. These policies have been designed to foster economic growth, improve living conditions, and enhance the quality of life for residents. Notable initiatives include the Akwa Ibom State Social Investment Program (AKSIP) targeting poverty alleviation through financial aid and skill development, job creation schemes such as the Akwa Ibom Youth Employment Scheme, and infrastructure projects to support rural development. This paper provides a comprehensive examination of these policies covering the period from 2015 to 2023, evaluating their objectives, implementation strategies, and outcomes. It highlights significant projects like the establishment of Ibom Air, rural road networks, and skill acquisition centers, offering insights into their impact on the socio-economic conditions of the state. The analysis aims to assess the effectiveness of these interventions in achieving the state's developmental goals and addressing the critical challenges faced by its population. Data was gathered from secondary sources such as relevant books and internet materials. Findings indicated that while significant progress has been made through various intervention programs, there are critical challenges that need to be addressed to enhance their effectiveness and sustainability. The paper reveals several key outcomes and challenges in the areas of poverty eradication, unemployment reduction, and rural development. The policies have led to notable achievements, including improvements in poverty levels, job creation, and rural infrastructure. However, they have also faced significant obstacles, such as funding constraints, bureaucratic inefficiencies, skill mismatches, and maintenance issues. The study recommended among others that the effectiveness of Akwa Ibom

Keywords

Poverty Unemployment Poverty Eradication Rural Development

References

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