Assessment of Government Response to Socioeconomic Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria

Abstract

Since the Nigerian economy is largely dominated by informal workers, the preventive measures (lockdown, movement restriction, social distancing and interstate travel ban) occasioned by COVID-19 pandemic will affect socioeconomic livelihood in Nigeria. Relying on secondary sources, this study examines socioeconomic challenges of COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria, analyses and evaluates government response to curbing its effect on livelihood in Nigeria. Results from the study find bearings between Covid-19 pandemic and low socioeconomic livelihood in Nigeria. Palliative measures introduced by the government to minimize the effect of COVID-19 pandemic are largely ineffective owing to poor coordination, human right violations as well as inadequate fiscal policy. Recommendations from the study draws on the need for the government to diversify the economy by promoting the informal and agricultural sectors, facilitate infrastructural development and improve health facilities, to avoid economic recession of post COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria.

Keywords: Nigeria, Socioeconomic, Informal Economy, COVID-19 Pandemic, Lockdown