Which of the following is NOT an objective of Economic planning?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which option is NOT an objective of economic planning. So three options are real goals of planning, and one is the odd one out.

Step 2: Explain the concept Economic planning is the deliberate effort by a government or central authority to direct the use of a country's resources to achieve set goals within a given period (for example, Nigeria's past National Development Plans). Its main objectives include:

• Achieving rapid and sustained economic growth
• Creating employment and reducing unemployment
• Allocating resources fairly and efficiently
• Reducing income inequality and poverty
• Diversifying the economy
• Improving infrastructure and living standards
• Achieving balanced regional development

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Equitable allocation of resources: This is an objective. Planning aims to distribute resources fairly across sectors and regions.
• B. Widening the income gap: This is NOT an objective. Planning aims to narrow the gap between rich and poor, not widen it.
• C. Achieving economic growth: This is an objective. It is one of the central aims of any development plan.
• D. Creating employment: This is an objective. Planners target job creation to reduce unemployment.

Step 4: Answer The option that goes against the goals of economic planning is B. Widening the income gap.

Exam tip: In "NOT an objective" questions, look for the option that has a negative effect or goes against development, such as "widening," "increasing unemployment," or "worsening inequality." Planning is always aimed at improving the economy, so the negative-sounding option is usually the answer.