S.O IGBINEDION

development in Nigeria, with GDP growth rate as a proxy for economic development. Using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) Model and Error Correction Mechanism (ECM), the study assesses both the short-run and long-run effects of key stock market and economic indicators, including market capitalization (MC), all-share index (ASI), inflation rate (INF), monetary policy rate (MPR), gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), and foreign direct investment (FDI). The findings reveal that the All Share This study examines the relationship between stock market performance and economic Index (ASI) has a persistent positive and significant impact on GDP growth, indicating that stock market performance plays a crucial role in economic development. Conversely, inflation (INF) and market capitalization (MC) exhibit persistent negative and significant impacts, suggesting that rising stock market values do not necessarily translate into real economic growth. Gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) and foreign direct investment (FDI) have negative and insignificant effects in the short run, while FDI exhibits a positive but insignificant long-run impact. Additionally, the monetary policy rate (MPR) has a negative and insignificant short-run impact on GDP growth. The study concludes that while stock market performance is important for economic development, inflation control, efficient capital allocation, and strategic investment policies are necessary to sustain long-term growth. Policy recommendations include enhancing financial market efficiency, ensuring productive capital allocation, attracting growth-driven FDI, and implementing balanced monetary policies to support economic stability. Keywords: Stock Market, Economic Development, ARDL, Market Capitalization, Inflation, Foreign Direct Investment, Nigeria.

the study” the impact ofpopulation growth on poverty rate in Nigeria ” seeks to examine howpopulation growth influences the rate ofpoverty in Nigeria. The study utilized data covering the period from 1981 to 2022. The model is logged and estimated and the data stationary is obtained using ADF test for unit root. The empiricalfindings shows that population growth has a negative and insignificant impact on poverty rate while Unemployment rate, Real Gross Domestic Product and inflation rate has apositive and insignificant impact onpoverty rate in Nigeria.This study therefore recommends that there should be a more comprehensive approach to poverty reduction, by addressing the multiple dimensions ofpoverty and promoting inclusive and sustainable development. Resources should be provided and directed strategically in order to make meaningful progress in the reduction ofpoverty rate and improving the lives of the growing population in Nigeria

he study employs yearly data from 1980 to 2021 to analyze the Balance of Payments in Nigeria. Its primary objective is to explore the long-term determinants of Nigeria's Balance of Payments. The investigation employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model (ARDL). The long-run ARDL regression findings indicate a negative exchange rate effect, while the short-run results show a positive value. Furthermore, the coefficients for FDI, GDP growth, interest rates, and crude oil prices are all positive and statistically significant. The research suggests a compelling case for government intervention to stimulate economic productivity. To foster economic growth, capital investment and expenditure are crucial. The government should entice foreign investment by providing incentives to potential foreign investors. Additionally, the government should enhance security and establish a sense of belonging in the Niger Delta to promote peace and ease of operations in the oil industry.