Influence of Skills Acquisition and Financial Inclusion on Economic Empowerment of Women and Youth in Conflict Communities of North-East Nigeria: A Study of Selected States
Keywords:
Skills acquisition, financial inclusion, economic empowerment, women, youth, conflict communities, BAY States, Skills Acquisition, Financial Inclusion, Economic Empowerment, Conflict Communities, BAY StatesAbstract
This study investigated the influence of skills acquisition and financial inclusion on the economic empowerment of women and youth in conflict-affected communities across BAY States, North-East Nigeria. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 372 women and youths who participated in vocational, entrepreneurial, agricultural, and financial inclusion programmes. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that participation in skills acquisition programmes was relatively high (Grand Mean = 3.58), financial inclusion was moderate (Grand Mean = 3.16), and both variables had significant positive effects on economic empowerment (R² = 0.549, p < .001), with skills acquisition emerging as the stronger predictor (β = 0.512, p < .001). Insecurity, inadequate start-up capital, and limited market access were identified as major challenges affecting sustainable empowerment. The study concludes that integrating market-relevant skills training with accessible financial services is essential for strengthening economic resilience and livelihood opportunities for women and youth in BAY States. Recommendations targeting policymakers, financial institutions, and development agencies are provided.
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References
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