In a new global economic report released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and published by Visual Capitalist, Nigeria has been ranked the 12th poorest country in the world by GDP per capita, recording just $807 per citizen in 2025. Despite being one of Africa’s largest economies in terms of total GDP, the report exposes the harsh realities of widespread poverty, economic inequality, and underdevelopment across the nation.
The data highlights the paradox of Nigeria’s economic structure—boasting massive natural resources and population size, yet struggling to translate that into improved living standards. South Sudan topped the poverty list with $251, while other African nations like Burundi, CAR, Malawi, and DR Congo were also among the bottom-ranked.
Visual Capitalist noted that fragile institutions, chronic conflict, and weak industrial foundations continue to limit income growth across many African nations—even as global economies rebound post-pandemic.
Even more alarming is Africa’s overall underrepresentation in the global economy. The continent accounts for 19% of the global population but only 3% of the $113 trillion world economy. India also made the list, ranking 50th, with a per capita GDP of $2,878.
This report underscores the urgent need for reforms, accountability, economic diversification, and citizen-focused policies in Nigeria.
