Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Access to credit facilities plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals and fostering economic growth, particularly for women in rural areas. In Tofa Local Government Area (LGA), Kano State, women face several challenges in accessing financial services, including credit facilities. These challenges are heavily influenced by geopolitical factors, including local governance structures, cultural norms, and regional political dynamics. The political landscape of Kano State, with its diverse ethnic and religious composition, contributes to the difficulties women face in gaining access to credit (Ibrahim & Mohammed, 2023). While some regions in Nigeria have seen progressive policies aimed at empowering women economically, Tofa LGA continues to grapple with systemic barriers that restrict women’s access to financial services.
In this context, Tofa LGA is marked by strong cultural traditions and gender-specific roles that often limit women’s participation in economic activities. Women are often excluded from decision-making processes and may face discriminatory practices when attempting to access credit from both formal and informal financial institutions. The role of local governance is also critical, as policies and practices in local government can either hinder or support women's economic empowerment (Abubakar & Salim, 2024). This study seeks to evaluate how geopolitical factors such as local leadership, religious practices, and regional policies shape women's access to credit facilities in Tofa LGA.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Women in Tofa LGA face significant barriers in accessing credit facilities due to geopolitical influences such as local governance, socio-cultural norms, and political biases. These obstacles impede their ability to engage in entrepreneurial activities, resulting in limited economic empowerment and participation in the local economy. This study seeks to investigate how these geopolitical factors affect women's access to credit facilities in Tofa LGA.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Research Hypothesis
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to understanding the socio-political and cultural factors that limit women’s access to credit in Tofa LGA. By evaluating the role of local governance, religious, and cultural factors, the study will provide key insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and women's empowerment organizations to design strategies that promote equitable access to credit. Furthermore, the findings will inform future interventions aimed at empowering women economically and ensuring that they can participate more actively in the local economy.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to Tofa LGA in Kano State and focuses on women’s access to credit facilities, considering the influence of local governance, culture, and regional policies. Limitations include the difficulty of gathering reliable data from informal financial sectors and potential biases in reporting from local government officials or financial institutions.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
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