An exploratory study of local social innovation initiatives for sustainable poverty reduction in Nigeria

Abstract

The eradication of extreme poverty remains an intractable global challenge. This paper explores social innovation (SI) as a strategy for fostering sustainable poverty reduction in a developing country, Nigeria. Analysis is based on semi‐structured interviews with founders of SI initiatives. Findings indicate SI as a sustainable poverty reduction strategy because it addresses: (i) some underlying causes of poverty such as poor nutrition and lack of access to education; (ii) different dimensions of sustainability (i.e., economic, social and environmental). The study also identifies socially innovative cultural practices such as traditional rotational saving/credit and apprenticeship schemes which help eradicate poverty by ensuring improved access to finance and encouraging entrepreneurship. Furthermore, results indicate local SI initiatives in Nigeria are largely private sector‐led, while a weak institutional environment hampers expansion. The study highlights the need for policy aimed at identifying, strengthening and scaling up innovative local practices, and creating favourable framework conditions for SI.

Defining and measuring the effects of digital technologies on social sustainability: A systematic literature review

“…"Social sustainability is perceived as a sustainable development principle aimed at achieving equality and reducing poverty through job creation and education, empowerment and freedom, preservation of diversity, protection and promotion of human rights, equity and health and safety." (Ipinnaiye & Olaniyan, 2023) Motivated by the "exponential growth of information and communications technologies (ICT) in the last thirty years" (Walker & Brown, 2020), in this study, we aim to explore the relation between digital technologies and social sustainability via a systematic literature review. In particular, we want to address the following research questions:…”

“…Social sustainability could be defined in several ways. We hereby present the following set of definitions as the conceptual basis for this work. “Social sustainability is a vital cog of sustainable development which takes care of social aspects by giving importance to social values, equity and justice; addressing basic needs, safety and health; bringing sense of community, social capital and diversity; respecting human rights, and thereby paving the way to eliminate poverty, bringing higher quality of life and augmenting the standard of living.” (Shaw et al, 2022) “[A] positive condition within communities, and a process within communities that can achieve that condition” (de Fine Licht & Folland, 2019), including aspects such as equity in service access and between generations, defending labor rights, cultural integration, empowerment of minorities or widespread political participation of citizens. “social goals [of sustainable development include] improving equal job opportunities, improving participation in creating community capacities, reducing impact on cultural and historical heritage.” (Dalirazar & Sabzi, 2022) “Social sustainability is perceived as a sustainable development principle aimed at achieving equality and reducing poverty through job creation and education, empowerment and freedom, preservation of diversity, protection and promotion of human rights, equity and health and safety.” (Ipinnaiye & Olaniyan, 2023) …”

The Effects of Public Participation on Local Economic Development in South African Municipalities

“…By promoting local businesses, supporting micro-enterprises, and encouraging value addition within communities, LED initiatives help to lift individuals and families out of poverty. For instance, when local entrepreneurs and businesses thrive, they create job opportunities and increase money circulation within the local economy, benefiting a broader population segment (Ipinnaiye et al, 2023).…”

“…It can include not only formal employment but also informal and self-employment opportunities. Additionally, targeted skills development programs that align with local economic needs can enhance the employability of residents, further contributing to reducing unemployment rates (Jili et al, 2017;Ipinnaiye et al, 2023;Ubong et al, 2023).…”

Partially Fermented African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) Meal on Laying Performance, Blood Profile, Carcass Characteristics and Economic Efficiency of Layer Chickens

“…Expanding poultry production particularly in northern Ghana could provide new livelihood opportunities and increased access to animal protein. The growth of the poultry industry is however challenged with a number of constraints including: the withdrawal of government subsidies to satisfy the requirement of the World Bank prescribed Structural Adjustment Programme [2,3], massive importation of cheaper frozen chicken [4,5], the outbreak of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) [6], and Newcastle disease which discourage potential farmers [7] and in recent years, high feed cost [8].…”