THE IMPACT OF THE N-POWER PROGRAMME ON POVERTY REDUCTION IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the impact of the N-Power Programme on poverty reduction among youths in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: assess the programme's effect on skills acquisition and income improvement; evaluate its contribution to livelihood sustainability; and identify implementation challenges affecting its effectiveness. The study was anchored on social investment and social contract theories. A descriptive survey research design was employed, with primary data collected from 352 N-Power beneficiaries selected through a multi-stage sampling technique comprising purposive, stratified, and simple random sampling from four local government areas. Instrument validity was established through expert review, and reliability yielded a Cronbach's alpha of 0.87. Findings revealed that N-Power contributed positively to poverty reduction through enhanced technical skills (mean = 3.24, SD = 0.67), improved household income (mean = 3.13, SD = 0.75), and better living standards (mean = 3.14, SD = 0.77). Participation was highest in N-Power Teach (83.8%). Significant challenges included irregular stipend payments (mean = 3.29, SD = 0.68), corruption (mean = 3.08, SD = 0.79), and weak post-exit support (mean = 2.81, SD = 0.85). A Spearman's correlation confirmed a significant positive relationship between participation duration and income improvement (rho = 0.412, p < 0.05). The study concludes that while N-Power has generated short-term poverty reduction gains, its long-term effectiveness depends on addressing governance deficits and strengthening transition mechanisms. Recommendations include automated stipend payment systems, expanded N-Exit partnerships with the private sector, and enhanced monitoring frameworks.