END AUSTERITY CAMPAIGN - Public Discourse on Ending Poverty and Inequality in Nigeria

Join us in a crucial public discourse aimed at addressing the pressing issues of poverty and inequality in Nigeria. For decades, Nigeria has grappled with the consequences of austerity measures, rising debt, and insufficient public services that disproportionately impact vulnerable communities, especially women and children. This event will explore sustainable solutions to break the cycle of poverty, promote inclusive development, and end austerity.

Why This Matters

Nigeria’s economic policies over the last few decades have led to rising debt, fiscal deficits, and austerity-driven measures that limit public investment in critical areas such as health, education, and social services. These cuts have deepened inequality and hindered progress toward achieving economic stability and human development. This discourse aims to shed light on how these issues can be addressed through alternative, progressive economic policies.

The End Austerity Campaign is a collective movement driven by citizens, youth and women’s rights organizations, environmental groups, economic justice communities, trade unions, human rights defenders, activists, researchers, and humanitarian organizations. The campaign seeks to end austerity as a universal policy prescription across Africa, particularly in Nigeria.

Initially, the campaign in Nigeria will focus on three major sectors of public service delivery: 

• Basic education, 
• Public health (primary and secondary healthcare), 
• The transportation system. 

Subsequently, it will be expanded to cover other key sectors of public service delivery. ActionAid Nigeria will officially launch the End Austerity campaign tagged #EndAusterityInNigeria and #ReclaimPublicService.

The primary purpose of the campaign launch is to raise awareness and create a platform for public discourse on the impact of austerity economic policies on citizens, particularly the increasing poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. Additionally, the campaign will propose alternative solutions to mitigate the negative effects of these measures. The launch will bring together key stakeholders, including government, civil society organisations, movements, citizens' groups, youth groups, women’s groups, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The launch will also provide an avenue for the presentation and dissemination of two comprehensive research reports: “The Impact of Austerity Measures on Poverty and Gender Inequality in Nigeria” and “The Impact of Nigeria's Removal of Fuel Subsidies and the Floatation of the Naira on Women and Girls.

Call to Action
This event serves as a rallying cry for policymakers, activists, civil society, and the public to unite in demanding an end to austerity measures that have failed Nigeria for decades. We must push for policies that prioritize poverty alleviation, gender equality, and sustainable development. Together, we can build a Nigeria that works for everyone.

How You Can Participate
- Register for the Event: https://shorturl.at/S7QCu Join experts, policymakers, and activists in this engaging public discussion.
- Spread the Word: Use the hashtag #EndAusterity to join the conversation on social media.
- Support ActionAid’s Initiatives: Learn more about ActionAid’s ongoing efforts to fight poverty and inequality in Nigeria.

Let’s take bold steps toward a more just and equal Nigeria. Together, we can end austerity and ensure a future of shared prosperity.

*#EndAusterity #EndPoverty #EndInequality*