Dynamics and drivers of multidimensional poverty among tomato producers in North West, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the dynamics and drivers of multidimensional poverty among tomato producers in Northwest Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was utilized, approximately, 200 tomato farmers from Kano and Kaduna states were selected. The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), Probit regression model and t-test analysis were employed with the MPI which measures severe deprivations by mirroring the Human Development Index in the dimensions of health, education, and living standard which are reflected in 10 indicators, each with equal weight within its dimension. The results revealed that 72% of the respondents are multidimensional poor, with an average poverty intensity of 62.37% and an MPI value of 0.4490—exceeding Nigeria’s national average. The standard of living contributed most significantly (39.5%) to poverty, followed by health (35.9%) and education (24.6%). The Probit regression analysis showed that educational attainment and income were the most significant factors negatively associated with multidimensional poverty, while variables such as age, access to credit, farming experience, and cooperative membership had no statistically significant effect. A cost-return analysis using a t-test confirmed the profitability of tomato farming, with average returns significantly exceeding costs (₦903,960 vs. ₦368,250.34). However, the persistence of poverty among growers, despite profitability, suggests that income alone cannot eliminate multidimensional deprivations without improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The study recommends holistic poverty alleviation strategies that integrate agricultural support with social infrastructure development to enhance the overall well-being of farming households.