IDREES Mahmud Gana
Department of Political Science
Edusoko University Bida, Niger State
mahmud.idrees@gmail.com
RABI Tafa Akanbi
Department of Sociology
Edusoko University Bida, Niger State
rabi4eub@gmail.com
NURA Malam Bashar
Department of Micro Finance and Enterprises Development
Federal Polytechnic Daura, Katsina State
nuramalambashar@fedpolydaura.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
The removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria has been a contentious issue, with some experts believing that it will liberate much-needed resources and others arguing that it will increase poverty. This study assessed the implications of fuel subsidies removal for Nigeria’s long-term growth. The goal of this study was to examine the ramifications of removal fuel subsidies and their possible role in encouraging sustainable development; and thereby, add to the ongoing policy debate by assessing the economic impacts of removal fuel subsidies. The study applied exploratory research design and relied mainly on qualitative method of data collection. Secondary data were analyzed by means of qualitative content analysis. Human capital theory served as the theoretical framework of the study. The study revealed that removal of fuel subsidies has direct economic consequences, including inflationary pressures, fiscal sustainability, debt reduction, increase poverty and vulnerability, as well as protest and social unrest; and recommends that government should ensure transparency and accountability in the management of funds saved from subsidy removal.
The study also recommends that government should prioritize tackling widespread hunger, increasing unemployment, and declining standard of living.
Keywords: Economic implications, fuel subsidy, policy implementation, sustainable development