Perceived relation of human capital development and poverty alleviation in Nigeria (1970-2016): A linear probability model approach

This study examined the relationship between human capital development and poverty alleviation in Nigeria. Specifically the study investigated the profile of poverty in Nigeria in the wake of human capital investment drive, education and health expenditures on poverty level. A Linear Probability Model (LPM) Regression approach were employed with data from 1970 to 2016 and a cross sectional data of 365 respondents in north central-Nigeria (Kogi and Niger states and Abuja FCT). A set of data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with appropriate technique in order to identify the perception of socio-economic impact of human capital development on poverty alleviation in Nigeria. The findings show that negative relationship exists between Investment, Education expenditure, Health care expenditure andpoverty alleviation in north central-states. Also there is positive and significant relationship between GDP and poverty alleviation in north central state-Nigeria. The study therefore concludes that Human capital development has significant impact on poverty alleviation in Nigeria. The study recommends among other things that more conscious effort be made on the war against public sector corruption in Nigeria. Through this, human capital sectors could improve their financial situation by improving the efficiency, transparency, accountability and effectiveness of resource use and thereby cutting costs.