Nigeria has been ranked the 12th poorest country in the world by gross domestic product per capita in 2025, according to new data from the International Monetary Fund published by Visual Capitalist.

The report, released on June 24, shows Nigeria’s GDP per capita at $807, placing it among the bottom 15 out of 50 countries surveyed. South Sudan tops the list as the poorest country, with a GDP per capita of $251, followed by Yemen, Burundi, the Central African Republic and Malawi.

Despite being one of Africa’s largest economies by total GDP, Nigeria’s ranking highlights the persistent economic hardship faced by its population. The figure reflects the average economic output per person and serves as a rough measure of income levels and standard of living within a country.

Visual Capitalist noted that Africa remains the most represented region among the world’s poorest countries by this measure, accounting for a significant number of the bottom 50. The report attributes the poor rankings to factors such as conflict, weak institutions, underdeveloped infrastructure and limited industrial output, which have stifled economic growth across many African nations.

The data also show that while Nigeria’s economy is large in absolute terms, its population size significantly drags down its per capita output. Analysts say this reflects deep structural issues in the country’s economy, with income and opportunities concentrated among a small elite while the majority struggle with poverty, inflation and inadequate public services.

The report further underscores the economic gap between Africa and the rest of the world. While the global average GDP per capita in 2025 is estimated at $14,213, Nigeria’s figure is nearly 18 times lower. In total, Africa accounts for 19 percent of the global population but only 3 percent of global economic output.

India also appears on the list as the 50th poorest country with a GDP per capita of $2,878, despite ranking as the fourth-largest economy in the world by total GDP. Experts say the case of India and Nigeria illustrates how total national output does not necessarily translate to widespread prosperity.

While GDP per capita is not a complete measure of wealth or living standards, it provides insight into how much economic productivity is generated per citizen. Economists warn that unless Nigeria invests in inclusive growth, job creation and key sectors like education, health and infrastructure, its development will continue to lag behind.

The report ranks other African countries such as Madagascar, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique and Niger among the poorest globally. It adds that without sustained reforms, many countries on the continent may remain trapped in cycles of low productivity and poverty.