Music, Creative Economies, and Poverty Alleviation in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines how music helps reduce socioeconomic inequalities in Nigeria. Although creative industries are increasingly recognised as pathways to inclusive development, research often overlooks how music functions as work, livelihood, and cultural capital for marginalised groups such as low‑income youth, women in informal creative work, rural performers, and urban street‑level musicians. This article addresses that gap by analysing how music supports employment, entrepreneurship, and economic fairness across indigenous and popular genres. It highlights how Nigeria’s music sector enables underserved communities to build income, develop skills, and gain social visibility. Guided by Cultural Capital Theory and the Political Economy of Culture, the study explores how symbolic assets and structural barriers shape access to music‑based opportunities. Using documentary and analytical methods, it draws on musical texts, performance media, and secondary data from statistical sources and digital streaming platforms. The findings show that music can generate income, narrate socioeconomic struggle, and promote social inclusion. The study recommends integrating music into national poverty‑reduction strategies and calls for stronger cultural policy support within development planning.