Government Intervention and Poverty Reduction Strategies in Adamawa State: A Case Study of PAWECA Skill Acquisition Programme

Abstract

Government intervention continues to play a vital role in Nigeria's efforts to reduce poverty, particularly in Adamawa State, where unemployment and inequality remain widespread. This study examines the effectiveness of the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA) skill-acquisition programme as a strategy for improving livelihoods. It focuses on two key aspects: the extent to which the programme is accessible to its target population and the degree to which beneficiaries utilise the skills they acquire. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and collected data from 400 respondents across selected local government areas using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 25. The results unveiled that accessibility to the programme is moderate, with challenges including limited public awareness, high transport costs, and administrative delays. Utilisation of acquired skills was also moderate, hindered by inadequate funding and weak post-training support. Regression analysis revealed that both accessibility (β = 0.42, p < 0.05) and utilisation (β = 0.55, p < 0.05) significantly contribute to poverty reduction and livelihoods. The findings support the Human Capital Theory, which links education and training to improved productivity and income. The study concludes that while the PAWECA programme has made positive contributions to poverty alleviation, its impact is constrained by operational and institutional limitations. It recommends greater public sensitisation, simplified enrolment procedures, stronger post-training support, improved monitoring, and collaboration with private firms and non-governmental sectors to enhance the programme's sustainability and effectiveness.