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Assessing the Contribution of the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) To Economic Growth and National Development in Nigeria
Dr. Zuobomudor Edwin Agbana
Bayelsa State Institute of Entrepreneurship and Vocational Training, Elebele
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.1210000219
Received: 20 October 2025; Accepted: 28 October 2025; Published: 15 November 2025
ABSTRACT
This study assessed the contribution of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to economic growth and
national development in Nigeria between 2015 and 2025. Using a mixed-method approach that combined
secondary quantitative data from the National Bureau of Statistics, Central Bank of Nigeria, and World Bank
with qualitative insights from SDG progress reports and policy documents, the research analyzed the relationship
between SDG implementation and key economic indicators, Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) per capita,
employment rate, Gini index, and capital expenditure. The findings revealed a positive but uneven impact of
SDG initiatives on Nigeria’s economic performance. While progress in infrastructure (SDG 9) and human capital
development (SDGs 4 and 8) contributed to moderate growth, persistent inequality and governance challenges
limited inclusive development outcomes. The regression analysis indicated that capital expenditure and
employment rates had significant positive effects on economic growth, whereas inequality exerted a negative
influence. The study concludes that achieving the SDGs in Nigeria requires strengthened institutional capacity,
consistent policy coordination, and targeted investment in pro-poor and job-intensive sectors. It recommends
enhancing data-driven monitoring, promoting fiscal transparency, and fostering private sector partnerships to
sustain progress toward the 2030 Agenda. Overall, the research underscores the SDGs’ catalytic role in shaping
Nigeria’s path toward inclusive and sustainable national development.
Keywords: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); Economic Growth; National Development; Inequality;
Employment; Capital Expenditure; Institutional Capacity; Nigeria; 2030 Agenda; Inclusive Growth.
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
The quest for sustainable and inclusive economic growth remains one of the foremost development challenges
of the 21st century. In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,
encompassing 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), designed to end poverty, protect the planet, and
ensure prosperity for all. Each goal represents an integrated dimension of human development, interconnecting
social inclusion, economic growth, and environmental protection (United Nations, 2015). For developing
economies like Nigeria, the SDGs offer a transformative blueprint to overcome persistent development
challenges such as unemployment, inequality, and institutional inefficiency, thereby ensuring sustainable
national growth. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces a unique paradox: vast natural and human
resources coexist with high poverty and inequality rates. Despite being one of the continent’s largest economies,
structural weaknesses—including poor infrastructure, low human capital development, and dependence on crude
oil—continue to undermine progress toward sustainable growth (World Bank, 2024). Recognizing this, Nigeria
domesticated the SDGs through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-
SDGs), aligning them with national policy instruments such as the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP
2017–2020), and subsequently the National Development Plan (2021–2025). These frameworks prioritize
human capital, infrastructure, and innovation as key drivers of inclusive development.
However, the implementation of SDGs across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones has produced uneven results.
Regional disparities persist due to differences in institutional capacity, resource endowment, and governance
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quality. States in the southern regions, particularly Lagos and Rivers, have recorded substantial improvements
in economic output and human development indices, while northern states such as Borno and Kano continue to
lag behind due to insecurity, low investment, and weak social systems (UNDP, 2023). in comparison of the
Regional SDG performance and economic indicators between 2015 and 2025 as presented below.
Table 1: SDG Composite Scores and Key Economic Indicators by Selected States (2015–2025)
Geo-
Political
Zone
State Average SDG
Composite
Score (2025)
Real GSDP
per Capita
(₦)
Employment
Rate (%)
Gini Coefficient
(Inequality
Index)
Average Annual
Growth Rate (%)
South-
West
Lagos 74.2 3,150,000 78.5 0.35 4.8
South-
South
Rivers 70.5 2,890,000 74.2 0.37 4.3
South-East Enugu 63.1 2,130,000 69.4 0.39 3.2
North-
Central
Kwara 59.8 1,950,000 65.3 0.40 2.8
North-
West
Kano 48.3 1,480,000 58.2 0.43 1.9
North-East Borno 42.7 1,120,000 52.6 0.45 1.2
National
Average
— 58.4 2,120,000 66.4 0.40 3.0
Source: Author’s computation (2025) using data from NBS (2024), UNDP (2023), CBN Statistical Bulletin
(2024), and State SDG Reports (2015–2025).
Table 1 reveals a pronounced north-south divide in Nigeria’s SDG and economic performance. Lagos and Rivers
outperform other regions in both SDG implementation and per capita income, while Borno and Kano trail
significantly behind. This imbalance underscores the importance of regional inclusivity and institutional capacity
in driving national development. These disparities illustrate the broader question of whether SDG
implementation has tangibly contributed to Nigeria’s economic transformation and equitable development.
Previous growth models, largely driven by oil revenues, failed to translate macroeconomic gains into social
welfare improvements. The SDGs, however, offer a multidimensional paradigm that emphasizes sustainability,
inclusivity, and equity, aligning economic progress with human well-being and environmental responsibility
(Sachs, 2016). Therefore, understanding the contribution of SDG-driven policies to economic outcomes is
crucial for Nigeria’s development trajectory toward 2030. Empirical studies suggest that effective SDG
integration fosters inclusive growth by promoting human capital development, industrial innovation, and poverty
reduction (OECD, 2022). Yet, evidence from Nigeria remains fragmented. While certain indicators, such as
employment generation and infrastructure expansion, have shown improvement, inequality and regional poverty
persist. The challenge lies not only in policy design but in institutional implementation and financing
mechanisms, particularly at the subnational level.
Statement of the Problem
A decade into the SDG implementation (2015 - 2025), Nigeria’s progress remains mixed. Despite government
commitments, data reveal that economic growth has not been sufficiently inclusive, with the Gini Index
averaging 0.40 and unemployment hovering around 33% in some years (NBS, 2024). Structural bottlenecks,
such as policy inconsistency, weak institutional frameworks, corruption, and insecurity continue to limit SDG
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impact. While national economic growth has occasionally rebounded due to oil price recovery, such growth
often fails to translate into improved welfare, human capital, or equitable development. Thus, there is a need to
empirically assess whether SDG implementation has significantly influenced economic growth and reduced
inequality across Nigeria’s states. Specifically, the problem revolves around how SDG performance translates
into measurable economic outcomes, and whether regional disparities undermine Nigeria’s collective progress
toward the 2030 Agenda.
This study, therefore, investigates the contribution of SDG implementation to economic growth and national
development in Nigeria, emphasizing employment and inequality as key mediating variables.
Objectives of the Study
The broad objective of this study is to assess the contribution of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to
economic growth and national development in Nigeria from 2015 to 2025. The specific objectives are to:
i. To determine the effect of SDG implementation (SDG) on economic growth across Nigeria’s geopolitical
zones.
ii. To assess the effect of employment rate (EMP) on economic growth in Nigeria.
iii. To evaluate the impact of income inequality (INEQ) on economic growth in Nigeria.
iv. To examine the effect of capital expenditure per capita (CAPEXP) on economic growth in Nigeria.
Research Hypotheses
The study will test the following null hypotheses:
H01: There is no significant relationship between SDG implementation and economic growth in Nigeria.
H02: Employment generation through SDG initiatives has no significant effect on economic growth in Nigeria.
H03: Income inequality does not significantly influence SDG implementation on economic growth in Nigeria.
H04: capital expenditure per capita (CAPEXP) does not significantly impact on economic growth in Nigeria.
Significance of the Study
This research contributes to the empirical understanding of how SDG policies translate into tangible economic
outcomes. Its findings are vital for policymakers, development practitioners, and international partners seeking
evidence-based strategies to accelerate progress toward the 2030 Agenda. The study also bridges existing
knowledge gaps by analyzing both macroeconomic indicators and perception-based data, offering a
multidimensional assessment of SDG effectiveness. Moreover, the regional analysis highlights where
interventions are most needed, thus guiding equitable fiscal allocation, institutional reform, and capacity building
at subnational levels. For scholars, the research offers valuable data and theoretical insights into the intersection
between sustainable development and economic growth within the Nigerian context.
Scope of the Study
The study focuses on the period 2015-2024, corresponding to Nigeria’s first decade of SDG implementation. It
covers six representative states, one from each geopolitical zone (Lagos, Rivers, Enugu, Kwara, Kano, and
Borno). The analysis integrates both quantitative data (e.g., GSDP per capita, employment, inequality) and
qualitative data (stakeholder perceptions). Emphasis is placed on SDGs directly linked to economic
development, namely Goals 1 (No Poverty), 4 (Quality Education), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9
(Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 10 (Reduced Inequality).
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LITERATURE REVIEW
Conceptual Review
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 interlinked global goals adopted by the United
Nations in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, designed to serve as a universal
call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all (United Nations, 2015). They
replaced the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and aim to address their shortcomings by integrating
economic, social, and environmental dimensions of development (Sachs, 2016). The SDGs are holistic and
universal, emphasizing inclusivity and sustainability. They recognize that economic growth must be inclusive
and provide decent jobs while addressing inequality and environmental degradation. According to Sachs and
Schmidt-Traub 92017), the SDGs provide both a moral and practical framework for countries to align their
national development policies toward measurable global targets. Nigeria domesticated the SDGs through the
establishment of the Office of the senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs) to integrate
the global agenda into national plans such as the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP 2017-2020) and
the National Development Plan (2021-2025). According to OSSAP-SDGs (2023), Nigeria has made progress in
education, renewable energy, and gender equality but still faces challenges in poverty eradication, inequality,
and institutional capacity.
Despite these efforts, significant disparities exist across states and regions due to differences in governance
quality, resource allocation, and institutional effectiveness (UNDP, 2023). Hence, the assessment of SDG
performance becomes critical in evaluating how these initiatives translate into economic and social outcomes
across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
Economic Growth
Economic Growth refers to the sustained increase in a nation’s productive capacity, typically measured by the
growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or Gross state domestic Product (GSDP) (Todaro & Smith, 2020). It
reflects the capacity of an economy to produce goods and services over time, driven by capital accumulation,
labor productivity, and technological advancement. The nexus between economic growth and sustainable
development has long been debated in economic literature. While growth is essential for poverty reduction and
human development, it can also exacerbate inequality if not managed inclusively (Barro, 2015; Piketty, 2014).
For developing economies like Nigeria, achieving growth that is both inclusive and sustainable requires
structural transformation, human capital development, and institutional reform (Olayemi, 2021). The World
Bank (2023) notes that Nigeria’s growth trajectory remains volatile due to dependence on crude oil exports,
fiscal instability, and low diversification. However, SDG-driven policies targeting innovation, education, and
infrastructure can catalyze more stable, broad-based growth. The integration of sustainability principles into
national economic planning ensures that current development efforts do not compromise future generations’
welfare (Sachs, 2020).
National Development
National development is a multidimensional concept encompassing economic growth, social progress, and
institutional effectiveness. It refers to the process through which a nation improves the living standards of its
citizens through sustained increases in income, education, health, and infrastructure (Todaro & Smith, 2020).
According to Aigbokhan (2017), national development implies both quantitative and qualitative transformation,
focusing on human welfare, equity, and environmental balance. In Nigeria, national development has historically
been pursued through economic plans such as the Vision 20:2020 and ERGP. Yet, persistent poverty,
unemployment, and regional inequality reveal that growth alone is insufficient. Hence, the SDGs represent a
shift from growth-centric to development-centric planning, integrating human, social, and environmental factors
(UNDP, 2022).
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The Nigerian experience demonstrates that macroeconomic indicators such as GDP growth often fail to reflect
true development outcomes unless accompanied by improvements in education, health, employment, and
institutional governance (Ejumudo, 2022). Thus, assessing the contribution of SDG implementation to national
development provides insight into how international development frameworks translate into domestic progress.
Inequality and Employment in the SDG Context
Two of the most critical indicators of inclusive development are inequality and employment. The SDGs directly
address these issues under Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequality).
According to ILO (2022), productive employment and decent work are essential for poverty reduction and
sustainable economic transformation. The employment rate serves as a proxy for economic inclusion and human
productivity. However, in Nigeria, the employment situation remains fragile due to limited industrial
diversification, skill mismatch, and weak labour market institutions (NBS, 2024). Similarly, inequality—
measured using the Gini Index reflects disparities in income and opportunity distribution. Alesina and Perotti
(1996) argue that high inequality hinders economic growth by reducing social cohesion and investment
incentives. In Nigeria, inequality remains persistently high, especially between urban and rural regions (UNDP,
2023). By targeting social protection, access to education, and gender equity, the SDGs aim to foster inclusive
growth. Therefore, the success of SDG implementation can be assessed by analyzing improvements in
employment and reductions in inequality.
Theoretical Framework
Sustainable Development Theory
The Sustainable Development Theory underpins the philosophy of the SDGs. It emphasizes the need to balance
economic, social, and environmental objectives to achieve long-term human welfare (Brundtland Commission,
1987). The theory advocates for intergenerational equity, meeting the needs of the present without compromising
the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
According to Pearce, Barbier, and Markandya (1990), sustainable development requires that natural and social
capital be maintained or enhanced, even as economic activities expand. This theory evolved as a response to the
limitations of traditional growth theories, which focused on economic expansion without accounting for resource
depletion or environmental degradation. In Nigeria’s context, sustainable development theory provides a
conceptual foundation for integrating SDGs into national planning. Policies promoting education, renewable
energy, gender equality, and institutional reform align with the sustainability framework. Sachs (2016) argues
that countries that adopt this integrated approach tend to achieve both growth and equity, while those pursuing
growth in isolation often experience environmental and social crises.
Human Capital Theory
Proposed by Schultz (1961) and expanded by Becker (1964), Human Capital Theory posits that education,
training, and health investments enhance individuals’ productivity, leading to economic growth and
development. According to Romer (1990), human capital accumulation is a key driver of endogenous growth,
enabling innovation and technological progress. In the SDG framework, human capital development corresponds
with Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Nigeria’s progress in these areas
directly influences productivity, employment, and income distribution. Oluwatobi and Ogunrinola (2018) found
that education and health expenditure significantly impact Nigeria’s GDP growth, suggesting that SDG
investment in human capital yields substantial returns. The theory also explains why regional disparities persist:
areas with higher educational attainment and healthcare access (e.g., Lagos and Rivers) tend to experience
stronger growth and lower poverty. Thus, human capital formation serves as the bridge linking SDG
implementation to sustainable national development.
Institutional Theory
Institutional Theory, rooted in the works of North (1990), emphasizes the role of formal and informal
institutions—laws, regulations, and norms in shaping economic performance. Institutions determine the
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incentives and constraints that govern human interaction, thereby influencing development outcomes. According
to Acemoglu and Robinson (2012), nations fail or succeed based on the inclusiveness or extractiveness of their
institutions. Inclusive institutions encourage participation, innovation, and equitable distribution of resources,
while extractive ones perpetuate inequality and inefficiency. In Nigeria, institutional weakness remains one of
the main obstacles to effective SDG implementation. Corruption, bureaucratic inefficiency, and weak
accountability mechanisms hinder the translation of policies into results (Transparency International, 2023).
Consequently, Institutional Theory provides a lens through which to understand how governance quality
moderates the impact of SDG programs on growth and equity.
Together, these three theories, Sustainable Development, Human Capital, and Institutional, form the analytical
foundation for assessing how SDGs contribute to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
Empirical Review
Empirical literature on the SDGs and economic development reveals mixed findings, particularly in developing
economies.
Globally, Sachs et al. (2022) demonstrated a strong correlation between SDG implementation and human
development indicators across 193 countries, noting that nations with stronger institutions and investment in
education achieved faster progress. Similarly, OECD (2021) found that integrating SDG targets into fiscal
planning enhances efficiency and long-term growth outcomes. In Africa, Moyo and Acheampong (2022)
analyzed SDG progress in Sub-Saharan Africa and concluded that while most countries adopted SDG-aligned
policies, institutional constraints and financing gaps remain the greatest obstacles. Eboh and Anyanwu (2021)
found that in West Africa, SDG-linked education and infrastructure projects contributed to improved
employment outcomes, though inequality persisted due to regional imbalances.
In Nigeria, Adewuyi and Akinwale (2020) examined the link between SDG implementation and GDP growth
between 2015 and 2019, concluding that while the SDGs positively influenced output through investment in
human capital and infrastructure, corruption and policy inconsistency limited their impact. Olayemi (2021)
similarly reported that SDG-related interventions in education and health increased productivity but had minimal
effect on income distribution. A recent study by UNDP (2023) on Nigeria’s subnational SDG performance
revealed that states with higher governance indices recorded better economic and social outcomes. Aigbokhan
(2022) noted that inclusive governance and fiscal decentralization are crucial for achieving equitable SDG
outcomes.
Ejumudo (2022) analyzed the impact of SDG Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) on employment
generation in Nigeria and found a modest improvement in job creation, though the informal sector still
dominates. NBS (2024) statistics support this, showing that while employment improved slightly in urban
regions, rural unemployment remains high. On inequality, Anyanwu (2020) established that income inequality
in Nigeria widened despite GDP growth, indicating that growth remains non-inclusive. This aligns with the
argument by Piketty (2014) that without redistribution and social protection, economic expansion can exacerbate
inequality.
In contrast, Ogunleye and Dauda (2021) found evidence that SDG-aligned fiscal interventions in social
protection and SMEs improved equity in southern states, suggesting that targeted, localized implementation can
yield better results. From a methodological perspective, many Nigerian studies employ econometric approaches
linking SDG proxies (education expenditure, employment rate, health access) to GDP or human development
indices. Yet, few have conducted comparative analyses across the six geopolitical zones. This creates a research
gap that the present study addresses by integrating both regional analysis and time-series data (2015–2025) to
evaluate the relationship between SDG performance, growth, employment, and inequality.
Research Gap
Despite extensive research on the relationship between Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and economic
growth, significant gaps remain. Most studies in Nigeria emphasize national-level analysis without addressing
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regional disparities in SDG performance, thus overlooking how local governance, institutional quality, and
resource endowment shape development outcomes. Few investigations consider employment and inequality as
mediating variables linking SDG implementation to economic growth, even though sustainable development
encompasses inclusivity and equity. Additionally, earlier studies primarily focused on the initial SDG
implementation years (2015 - 2019), neglecting long-term impacts. Methodological weaknesses, such as absence
of composite SDG indices and poor subnational data, also persist. This study bridges these gaps through regional
comparative analysis, multi-dimensional indicators, and mixed-method evidence covering 2015-2025.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Design
This study adopts a mixed-methods research design, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches to
assess the contribution of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to economic growth and national development
in Nigeria. The quantitative dimension utilizes secondary macroeconomic data such as Gross State Domestic
Product (GSDP) per capita, employment rate, and Gini index across six geopolitical zones from 2015 to 2025,
while the qualitative component captures institutional and policy insights derived from reports, stakeholder
interviews, and national SDG reviews. The mixed-method design is particularly appropriate for this study
because SDG implementation involves complex social, institutional, and economic interactions that cannot be
fully captured by numerical data alone (Creswell & Plano-Clark, 2018). Quantitative analysis reveals measurable
relationships, while qualitative interpretation provides contextual understanding of policy outcomes and
institutional behavior. The integration of both methods allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of how SDG
implementation influences Nigeria’s development trajectory.
Population and Sample of the Study
The study’s population consists of all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Nigeria. However, for
analytical efficiency and regional representation, six states were selected, each representing one of the country’s
six geopolitical zones as sample, they are Lagos (South-West), Rivers (South-South), Enugu (South-East),
Kwara (North-Central), Kano (North-West), and Borno (North-East). This stratified sampling approach captures
Nigeria’s economic and social diversity, ensuring regional balance. The selection was guided by three criteria:
(i) availability of consistent data, (ii) economic representativeness within the zone, and (iii) active SDG
institutional presence. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS, 2024), these states collectively
account for over 65% of Nigeria’s formal economic activities and reflect significant disparities in poverty,
education, and infrastructure, making them ideal for comparative analysis.
Sources of Data
The study relies primarily on secondary data, complemented by qualitative evidence.
Quantitative Data Sources
This study draws mainly from secondary data, enriched by qualitative insights to ensure depth and accuracy.
Quantitative data were obtained from credible institutions, including the National Bureau of Statistics (2015–
2024) for GDP, employment, and inequality indices; the Central Bank of Nigeria (2024) for capital expenditure;
the UNDP (2023) for SDG progress; and OSSAP-SDGs (2015–2025) for implementation records.
Qualitative Data Sources
The qualitative data were drawn from diverse and credible sources, including annual SDG progress reports from
the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, insightful interviews and policy briefs from
development partners such as UNDP, UNICEF, and the World Bank, as well as scholarly publications and
national policy documents that illuminate Nigeria’s evolving development strategies and priorities.
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Method of Data Collection
Data were systematically collected from official publications, online databases, and development agency
archives. For the qualitative component, purposive sampling was used to select policy documents and reports
with direct relevance to the SDG implementation framework. Quantitative data were compiled into a structured
dataset using Microsoft Excel for preliminary organization before being analyzed statistically using SPSS 26.0
and EViews 12.
Where secondary data were incomplete, interpolation and estimation techniques were applied to fill missing
values, ensuring temporal consistency for the 2015–2025 period. Qualitative data were content-analyzed to
extract recurring themes such as institutional performance, funding mechanisms, and policy coherence.
Model Specification and Analytical Techniques
The study employs panel data regression analysis to estimate the relationship between SDG implementation and
economic growth across the six selected states. The model is adapted from endogenous growth and sustainable
development frameworks (Romer, 1990; Sachs, 2016).
The functional model is expressed as:
������ = ��0 + ��1�������� + ��2�������� + ��3���������� + ��4�������� + ����
Where:
EGt = Economic growth of state i at time t (proxied by GSDP per capita)
SDGt = SDG composite score
EMPt = Employment rate (%)
INEQt = Gini index (measure of inequality)
CAPEXPt = Capital expenditure per capita (₦)
εt = Error term
The expected signs are:
β1,β2,β4>0; β3<0.
Measurement of Variables
Variable Description Proxy/Measurement Expected Sign
(EG) Increase in state GDP per capita Real GSDP per capita (₦) Dependent
(SDG) Composite SDG performance index % score (0–100) +
(EMP) Percentage of active population employed Employment rate (%) +
(INEQ) Distribution of income and opportunity Gini index (0–1) –
(CAPEXP) Government capital investment per capita ₦ per person +
Analytical Flow Chart
The analytical process is illustrated in Figure 3.1, showing how data collection, analysis, and interpretation are
systematically linked to the study objectives.
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Figure 3.1: Analytical Flow Chart
Data Presentation, Analysis and Discussion Of Findings
This section presents the data, analysis, and interpretation of results for the study assessing the contribution of
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to economic growth and national development in Nigeria (2015–
2025). The analysis integrates descriptive statistics, correlation tests, and panel regression results derived from
the six sampled states, Lagos, Rivers, Enugu, Kwara, Kano, and Borno, representing the six geopolitical zones
of Nigeria. The goal is to evaluate how SDG implementation (measured by composite scores) affects economic
growth (GSDP per capita), employment, inequality, and capital expenditure per capita across these states.
Data Presentation and Descriptive Statistics
Descriptive statistics summarize the central tendency and dispersion of variables over the study period. The
variables analyzed include economic growth (GSDP per capita in ₦’000), employment rate (%), Gini index
(inequality), capital expenditure per capita (₦’000), and SDG composite score (0–100).
Table 4.1: Summary Statistics of Key Variables (2015–2025)
Variable Mean Std. Dev. Min Max Variance SDG Score Mean
GSDP per capita (₦’000) 762.45 185.32 421.20 1,121.30 34,339.1 64.5
Employment Rate (%) 63.20 7.42 49.00 76.00 55.06 -
Gini Index 0.42 0.08 0.30 0.56 0.006 -
Capital Exp. per capita (₦’000) 118.62 45.20 56.00 204.00 2,043.1 -
SDG Composite Score (0–100) 64.5 9.40 48.00 79.00 88.36 -
Source: Author’s computation (NBS, CBN, UNDP, OSSAP-SDGs 2015–2025)
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The mean GSDP per capita across the states stands at ₦762,450, indicating moderate growth levels. The standard
deviation (₦185,320) shows notable disparity among the regions, Lagos and Rivers being the highest, while
Borno records the lowest due to persistent insecurity. The average employment rate (63.2%) reflects gradual
improvement post-2018 as states embraced SDG-driven entrepreneurship and vocational programs. The mean
Gini coefficient (0.42) suggests moderate inequality, though higher in northern regions. Capital expenditure per
capita (₦118,620) indicates uneven state fiscal capacity, while the mean SDG score (64.5%) signals fair but
incomplete implementation progress across states.
Correlation Matrix
The correlation analysis examines interrelationships among variables to check for multicollinearity and
preliminary associations.
Table 4.2: Correlation Matrix
Variables GSDP_pc SDG EMP GINI CAPEXP
GSDP 1.000 0.812 0.653 -0.532 0.774
SDG 0.812 1.000 0.748 -0.618 0.826
EMP 0.653 0.748 1.000 -0.563 0.701
GINI -0.532 -0.618 -0.563 1.000 -0.466
CAPEXP 0.774 0.826 0.701 -0.466 1.000
Source: Author’s computation (SPSS output)
All independent variables exhibit positive correlations with economic growth (GSDP_pc), while inequality
(GINI) is negatively correlated. The strongest positive relationship exists between SDG implementation and
GSDP (r = 0.812), suggesting that states with stronger SDG programs experience higher economic growth. The
moderate negative correlation between inequality and growth (r = -0.532) aligns with economic theory that
equitable societies grow more sustainably (Barro, 2015).
Panel Regression Results
The panel data regression was conducted using Fixed Effects and Random Effect Models to estimate the
relationship between SDG implementation and economic growth. The Hausman test (p<0.05) confirmed that the
Fixed Effects model is more suitable.
Table 4.3: Fixed Effects Regression Results (Dependent Variable: Economic Growth)
Variables Coef (β) Std. Error t-Statistic Prob.
Constant 318.42 72.50 4.39 0.000
SDG Implementation (SDG) 5.86 1.27 4.61 0.000
Employment Rate (EMP) 6.04 2.11 2.86 0.007
Inequality (GINI) -621.70 182.50 -3.41 0.001
Capital Expenditure (CAPEXP) 2.94 0.96 3.06 0.003
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R² 0.836 - - -
F-Statistic 28.47 - - 0.000
No. of Observations 66 - - -
Source: Author’s computation (EViews 12 output)
The regression output reveals an R² of 0.836, indicating that about 83.6% of variations in economic growth are
explained by SDG implementation, employment, inequality, and capital expenditure. The F-statistic (28.47, p <
0.01) confirms the model’s overall significance. The SDG implementation coefficient (β = 5.86, p < 0.01) shows
that a one-point increase in SDG score enhances GSDP per capita by ₦5,860, underscoring the strong
contribution of SDG-oriented policies to growth.
Employment rate (β = 6.04) significantly boosts economic performance, implying that SDG-linked job creation
and skills programs yield real economic dividends. On the other hand, Inequality (β = -621.70) exerts a
significant negative effect, implying that higher income disparity weakens development outcomes.
Capital expenditure (β = 2.94) demonstrates that infrastructural investments amplify the growth impact of SDG
projects. These findings align with global literature asserting that inclusive growth and social investments drive
long-term sustainability (Sachs, 2016; UNDP, 2023).
Comparative SDG Impact by Region
To highlight regional differences, mean SDG and economic growth scores are summarized below.
Table 4.4: Regional Averages of SDG Implementation and Growth
Zone State SDG Score GSDP per capita (₦’000) Employment Rate (%) Gini Index
South-West Lagos 78 1,121.3 74 0.36
South-South Rivers 70 910.4 69 0.39
South-East Enugu 62 698.5 64 0.43
North-Central Kwara 61 682.4 61 0.41
North-West Kano 58 614.8 59 0.45
North-East Borno 48 421.2 49 0.56
Source: Author’s computation (NBS, UNDP, OSSAP-SDGs 2025)
Lagos leads with the highest SDG performance (78%) and GSDP per capita (₦1.12 million), reflecting strong
private-sector growth, innovation, and governance. Conversely, Borno lags with 48% SDG implementation and
₦421,000 per capita, largely due to conflict, low investment, and weak infrastructure. The pattern demonstrates
that regions with stronger SDG governance frameworks experience accelerated economic performance—
affirming the transformative role of sustainable development initiatives.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue X October 2025
Graphical Presentation
Figure 4.1: Relationship between SDG Score and Economic Growth (2015–2025)
Figure 4.1 clearly depicts a positive linear relationship between SDG implementation and economic growth.
States with higher SDG scores exhibit stronger economic performance, indicating that SDG-based strategies
serve as catalysts for inclusive development.
DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
The findings affirm that SDG implementation significantly drives economic growth in Nigeria, consistent with
previous empirical studies (Akinlo & Apanisile, 2018; UNDP, 2023). States that effectively integrate SDG
principles—particularly in infrastructure, employment, and institutional reforms—experience measurable
economic advancement. The inequality remains a constraining factor; regions with high Gini coefficients exhibit
slower growth, validating the principle that “growth without equity is unsustainable” (Stiglitz, 2012). Capital
expenditure positively influences development outcomes, implying that fiscal investments under the SDG
framework enhance productive capacity and job creation. To align with the Institutional Theory and Public
Goods Theory, the analysis confirms that effective governance, infrastructure provisioning, and social
investment mechanisms are central to achieving economic sustainability. Therefore, the results demonstrate that
the SDGs are not merely social ideals but practical growth instruments, capable of transforming Nigeria’s
development structure when properly funded, localized, and institutionalized.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The findings underscore that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have a measurable and positive impact
on Nigeria’s economic growth when properly implemented. SDG-focused policies enhance productive
investment, job creation, and human capital development, fostering inclusive and resilient economies. The
0
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1200
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LAGOS RIVERS ENUGU KWARA KANO BORNO
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue X October 2025
study’s evidence affirms that the SDG agenda transcends social welfare, serving as a structural mechanism for
diversifying economies, expanding employment, and reducing poverty.
However, the uneven performance across Nigeria’s regions exposes institutional weaknesses, funding gaps, and
policy inconsistencies that undermine SDG effectiveness. Persistent inequality, weak local governance, and low
capital investment in critical sectors like infrastructure and education have slowed overall progress.
To fully harness the transformative power of the SDGs, Nigeria must prioritize policy coherence, strengthen
subnational implementation frameworks, and ensure that SDG indicators are integrated into annual budget cycles
and state development plans.
Ultimately, this study concludes that achieving the SDGs is not only a moral obligation but also an economic
imperative for sustainable national growth, stability, and equity.
Based on the findings, the following recommendations are proposed:
i. The federal and state governments should deepen coordination between the Office of the Senior Special
Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs) and state-level SDG offices to ensure efficient policy
alignment and monitoring. Institutional capacity building will improve accountability and impact
measurement.
ii. Increased capital expenditure on critical sectors—transportation, energy, health, and education—should be
prioritized, as these are fundamental enablers of growth under the SDG framework.
iii. Government should expand job creation programs and youth-focused enterprise development schemes.
Targeted microfinance and cooperative funding mechanisms can support SDG 8 (Decent Work and
Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
iv. The National Planning Commission should adopt a formula that links budgetary allocations to SDG
performance indices, encouraging lagging states to improve governance and social inclusion.
v. Reliable, disaggregated data is vital for SDG monitoring. Strengthening partnerships between the NBS,
academia, and civil society will enhance transparency and evidence-based decision-making.
vi. Collaboration with the private sector and international development partners can mobilize the resources and
innovation required for large-scale SDG interventions, particularly in renewable energy, housing, and digital
inclusion.
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