This policy brief makes a compelling case for a robust and inclusive social protection framework in Nigeria, arguing that such programs are indispensable tools for reducing poverty, inequality, and social vulnerability. Authored by Dr. Otive Igbuzor, the brief traces the evolution of social protection from fragmented, ad hoc interventions to today’s call for a comprehensive, rights-based system capable of delivering economic security and equity.

The document explores the four dimensions of social protection—protective, preventive, promotive, and transformative—and assesses Nigeria’s efforts against international benchmarks. Despite the expansion of social investment programs since 2015, the brief reveals that coverage remains below 5%, with major gaps in reach, funding, targeting, and credibility.

Drawing on global best practices and local evidence, the publication outlines strategic components of an effective national program: universal coverage, sustainable financing, institutional capacity, reliable data, and transparency. It critiques Nigeria’s existing systems as underfunded, poorly coordinated, and vulnerable to corruption but points to the “policy moment” created by political will, growing public awareness, and digital innovation.

The brief concludes with bold recommendations to overhaul Nigeria’s social protection architecture—revise registers, expand program scope, link safety nets to livelihoods, and institutionalize monitoring and citizen oversight. It is an essential guide for government officials, civil society, donors, and advocates committed to building a just and inclusive social protection system in Africa’s most populous nation.