Women Entrepreneurship and Business Growth in Yobe State

Abstract

This study investigates the determinants of business growth among women entrepreneurs in Yobe State, Nigeria, a context marked by significant socio-cultural constraints, limited access to finance, and the compounding effects of insecurity in the North-East geopolitical zone. Despite the recognized potential of women's entrepreneurship to drive inclusive economic growth, poverty reduction, and employment generation, women-owned enterprises in Yobe State predominantly remain micro-scale, informal, and unable to scale or formalize. Using a survey research design, data were collected from 84 women entrepreneurs and key stakeholders through structured questionnaires, complemented by qualitative insights. The study employed descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to analyze relationships between key variables. Findings reveal that women entrepreneurship has a positive and significant impact on business performance and economic growth in Yobe State. The effectiveness of Nigeria's regulatory framework was found to facilitate women entrepreneurs' access to opportunities and support business expansion, while awareness and education programs were shown to enhance risk management capabilities and improve business practices. The study concludes that women entrepreneurs are critical drivers of economic development in Yobe State, and that sustained investment in enabling environments, skills development, and institutional support is essential for unlocking their growth potential. Recommendations include creating supportive policy frameworks, investing in targeted training and capacity-building programs, and strengthening institutional mechanisms that facilitate access to finance, markets, and networks for women-led enterprises in the region.