COVID-19 AND SOCIOECONOMIC WELLBEING OF INHABITANTS OF SOUTHERN CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The impact of Covid-19 on socioeconomic wellbeing of Sub-Saharan African district of Southern Cross River State Nigeria has been investigated. The Covid-19 pandemic adversely affected the literacy level due to closure of schools; also, people’s livelihoods/food systems and public health were equally affected.  The theoretical framework was the sustainable livelihood template. It adopted the methodology of survey research design and drew evidence from 600 respondents. The analysis adopted inferential statistical tools and revealed that the people have experienced reduced income, decreased wellbeing and reduced accessibility to education and health services. People have also experienced increased vulnerability and reduced food security. The paper recommended that healthy school meals, shelter and food relief, support for employment retention and recovery, and financial relief for businesses are necessary for post Covid-19 living.