Economic Inequality in Yobe State, Nigeria: Patterns, Extent, and Implications

This article examines the patterns, extent, and implications of economic inequality in Yobe State, Nigeria, using a mixed-methods approach that combines household surveys (n = 400), key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative results revealed a Gini coefficient of 0.46, indicating moderately high inequality, with the top 20 per cent of households controlling nearly 40 per cent of total income, while the bottom 20 per cent controlled less than 7 per cent. Regression analysis showed that education, employment in the formal sector, access to infrastructure, urban-rural location, and gender of household head significantly influenced household income. Qualitative evidence complemented these findings by illustrating how poor infrastructure, limited access to credit, cultural norms restricting women’s participation, and unsustainable coping strategies perpetuate inequality. Triangulation revealed that inequality in Yobe is both structural and intersectional, shaped by socioeconomic disparities and reinforced by institutional and cultural barriers. The study concludes that reducing inequality in Yobe requires integrated policies that strengthen education, expand employment opportunities, improve infrastructure, mainstream gender considerations, and introduce effective social protection systems. The findings contribute to debates on inequality in fragile states and provide policy guidance for inclusive development in Nigeria.