This chapter examines the potential of microfinance institutions (MFIs) in empowering women in Nigeria amidst ongoing gender disparities. Despite global efforts to address these issues, Nigerian women continue to face significant challenges due to cultural norms, educational disparities, and limited financial access. This chapter outlines key policies, such as the Better Life Programme for Rural Women and the National Gender Policy, while highlighting how MFIs can address barriers by providing financial services, promoting financial literacy, and fostering financial inclusion through technology. This chapter also discusses the challenges MFIs face, including high operational costs and regulatory constraints, and concludes with policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of MFIs in empowering women, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Microfinance and Women’s Economic Empowerment in Nigeria: Challenges and Policy Perspectives

  • Hauwah K. K. AbdulKareem,
  • Khadijah Iddrisu

摘要

This chapter examines the potential of microfinance institutions (MFIs) in empowering women in Nigeria amidst ongoing gender disparities. Despite global efforts to address these issues, Nigerian women continue to face significant challenges due to cultural norms, educational disparities, and limited financial access. This chapter outlines key policies, such as the Better Life Programme for Rural Women and the National Gender Policy, while highlighting how MFIs can address barriers by providing financial services, promoting financial literacy, and fostering financial inclusion through technology. This chapter also discusses the challenges MFIs face, including high operational costs and regulatory constraints, and concludes with policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of MFIs in empowering women, particularly in rural and underserved areas.