The Corvus Magazine 5th Edition | Page 20

The Shrinking Nigerian Middle Class – Can Credit Help to Minimize the Economic Impact? Charles Eremi Africa Rising has been a recurring refrain in global economics. It references the belief that the continent has huge potentials for economic growth and development which in turn is largely hinged on her growing middle class. Accounting for over 47% of West Africa’s 19 population, and one of the largest youth populations in the world, Nigeria is believed to have what it takes to be a major economic power in Africa and beyond. With this premise, one would imagine that Nigeria offers immense opportunities for a more empowered middle class. What does this portend for Nigeria as a developing country? How does Nigeria fare with regards to social class prosperity when compared to other countries around the world? A synopsis of global class systems drawing on relevant statistics will address these concerns. The Corvus | September 2019