POVERTY, UNEMPLOYMENT, AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WORKERS IN ENHANCING LIVELIHOODS IN RIVERS STATE

This study examined poverty, unemployment, and community development in Rivers State, with a focus on the role of social workers in enhancing livelihoods. The objectives were to assess how household income levels, access to basic services, and livelihood security influence community development; to examine the effects of youth unemployment, underemployment, and reliance on informal economic activities on livelihoods; and to explore how social work interventions contribute to improved household and community outcomes. The study adopted a qualitative research approach using secondary sources, including academic journals, government reports, policy documents, and institutional assessments. Data were analyzed through thematic content analysis, enabling identification of patterns and relationships among key variables. The study was anchored on Sen’s Capability Approach (Sen, 1999), which assumes that development is realized when individuals have the freedom and capability to achieve well-being, emphasizing empowerment, access to resources, and agency in enhancing livelihoods and community participation. Findings revealed that low household income, limited access to basic services, and unstable livelihoods constrain participation in local economic and development initiatives, while youth unemployment and underemployment exacerbate household vulnerability and limit community development. Reliance on informal economic activities provides temporary income but fails to ensure long-term stability. Social work interventions—such as community empowerment, skills acquisition support, and access to social welfare services—were found to enhance livelihoods, promote community cohesion, and strengthen institutional responsiveness, facilitating sustainable development outcomes. The study concludes that integrated strategies combining economic support, social protection, and social work interventions are essential to improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive community development in Rivers State.