Background of the study:
Religious institutions in Ijebu North have increasingly assumed roles beyond spiritual guidance by contributing to economic empowerment. These institutions mobilize resources, provide microcredit facilities, and engage in community development projects that directly benefit local economic activities (Okechukwu, 2023; Fashina, 2024). They serve as platforms for social networking, skills training, and financial support, enabling community members to start small businesses and improve their livelihoods. Recent research indicates that the involvement of religious organizations in economic matters has fostered community resilience and increased entrepreneurial activity (Olawale, 2025). However, the intersection of faith and economic empowerment also raises questions about sustainability, accountability, and inclusivity. This study critically examines the contributions of religious institutions to economic empowerment in Ijebu North, exploring the mechanisms through which these organizations facilitate access to financial resources and capacity building. By drawing on current empirical studies and theoretical frameworks, the research seeks to provide a balanced appraisal of both the opportunities and challenges inherent in the economic interventions led by religious bodies.
Statement of the problem:
Despite the significant role of religious institutions in promoting economic empowerment, there is a lack of systematic research on how these initiatives translate into sustainable economic outcomes for communities in Ijebu North. Issues such as limited outreach, potential biases in resource allocation, and insufficient monitoring mechanisms have undermined the full potential of these programs. This study aims to fill the gap by investigating the effectiveness of religious institutions’ economic interventions and identifying the challenges that impede their success.
Objectives of the study:
1. To evaluate the economic empowerment initiatives led by religious institutions.
2. To assess the impact of these initiatives on community development.
3. To recommend strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of religious institutions in economic empowerment.
Research questions:
1. What economic empowerment initiatives are implemented by religious institutions in Ijebu North?
2. How do these initiatives impact local community development?
3. What measures can improve the sustainability and reach of these programs?
Research Hypotheses:
1. Religious institution-led initiatives significantly contribute to economic empowerment in Ijebu North.
2. The impact of these initiatives is moderated by the level of community engagement.
3. Enhanced transparency and monitoring improve the outcomes of religious economic interventions.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it provides a critical analysis of the role of religious institutions in economic empowerment. It offers valuable insights for faith-based organizations, policymakers, and community leaders to refine strategies that foster sustainable economic development.
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to assessing the economic empowerment roles of religious institutions in Ijebu North Local Government Area, Ogun State and does not cover other regions or secular empowerment programs.
Definitions of terms:
• Religious institutions: Organizations established primarily for spiritual guidance that also engage in social and economic development.
• Economic empowerment: Processes that enable individuals to improve their financial independence and socio-economic status.
• Community development: Initiatives aimed at improving the economic and social well-being of a community.
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