Governance Quality and Rural Poverty Reduction in Northwest Nigeria: An Analytical Study of Kebbi and Zamfara States

This study analytically examines the relationship between local governance quality and rural poverty outcomes in the North West geopolitical zone of Nigeria, with a focus on Kebbi and Zamfara States, which rank among the poorest in the country by multiple poverty indices. Despite substantial federal allocations to these states and their local government councils, poverty reduction has remained elusive, suggesting that governance quality may be a more significant determinant of poverty outcomes than resource availability alone. Guided by the Sen Capabilities Approach and the Institutional Quality Framework, this study develops a Local Governance Quality Index drawing on indicators of accountability, participation, rule of law, and service responsiveness. Primary data is gathered from 280 respondents across ten local government areas in both states through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Secondary data includes National Bureau of Statistics multidimensional poverty data, World Bank governance indicators adapted for sub-national analysis, and federal allocation records for the period 2020 to 2024. Multiple regression and ordinary least squares estimation are employed to test the governance-poverty relationship. The study addresses the gap in the literature on sub-national governance quality and poverty reduction in semi-arid Northwest Nigeria. Findings are expected to confirm that governance quality significantly moderates the poverty reduction impact of public expenditure. Recommendations include institutional reforms targeting participatory budgeting, local government anti-corruption enforcement, and community-based social protection monitoring in both states. Keywords: Governance quality, rural poverty, North West Nigeria, local government, Kebbi, Zamfara.