GIG ECONOMIC PRACTICES AND YOUTH LIVELIHOOD IN NIGERIAN DIGITAL SPACE

The global shift towards digitalization has intensified the prominence of gig economic practices as an alternative source of employment, particularly for youths in developing economies where formal job opportunities are scarce. In Nigeria, despite the rapid expansion of digital platforms such as ride-hailing, Chowdeck, Fiverr, Upwork, and Jumia, the capacity of gig economic practices to provide sustainable livelihoods for youths remains contested due to issues of digital exclusion and income volatility.

Against this backdrop, this study assessed the effect of gig practices on youth livelihoods in Nigeria’s digital space. The study employed a cross-sectional survey research design with a quantitative approach using a structured questionnaire administered to 400 youths engaged in various forms of gig work across urban centers. Data were analyzed using correlation analysis to determine relationships and multiple regression to assess the predictive effect of the gig economy proxies on youth livelihood at a 0.05 significance level.

Results revealed strong positive correlations between digital access (r = 0.68), skill utilization (r = 0.71) and youth livelihood, while income emerged as the most significant predictor (β = 0.41, p < 0.01) of sustainable livelihood outcomes. Findings further indicated that while flexibility enhances income diversification, its benefits are undermined by the absence of labor protections and income stability.

The study concluded that although the gig economy provides substantial opportunities for Nigerian youths, its capacity to guarantee long-term livelihood sustainability is mediated by digital infrastructure, skill intensity, and fair economic returns. It recommends expanding affordable digital access, promoting youth-centered digital upskilling programs, and establishing regulatory frameworks that ensure fair wages and social protection for gig workers.