Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 6
INTRODUCTION.. 6
1.1 Background to the Study. 6
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 7
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 8
1.4 Research Questions. 9
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 9
1.6 Significance of the Study. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study. 10
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study. 11
CHAPTER TWO.. 13
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 13
2.1 Introduction.. 13
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 18
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 21
Chapter Three. 22
Research Methodology. 22
3.1 Introduction.. 22
3.2 Research Design.. 22
3.3 Population and Sampling Techniques. 22
3.3.1 Population.. 22
3.3.2 Sampling Techniques. 23
3.4 Data Collection Methods. 23
3.4.1 Primary Data.. 23
3.4.2 Secondary Data.. 23
3.5 Instrumentation.. 24
3.5.1 Survey Questionnaire. 24
3.5.2 Interview Guide. 24
3.6 Data Analysis Techniques. 24
3.6.1 Quantitative Data Analysis. 24
3.6.2 Qualitative Data Analysis. 24
3.7 Ethical Considerations. 25
3.8 Limitations of the Study. 25
3.9 Conclusion.. 25
CHAPTER FOUR.. 26
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 27
4.1 Preamble. 27
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 27
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 32
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 32
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 44
Chapter Five. 50
Summary, Conclusion, and Recommendation.. 50
5.1 Summary of Findings. 50
5.2 Conclusion.. 52
5.3 Recommendations. 52
REFERENCES.. 54
Research Questionnaire: The Impact of Social Enterprises on Poverty Reduction in Nigeria (A Case Study of Tony Elumelu Foundation). 56
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
1.1 Background to the Study
In recent years, the role of social enterprises in addressing poverty has gained increasing recognition globally, and Nigeria stands as a prominent example of this phenomenon. With its vast population and significant socio-economic challenges, Nigeria presents a complex landscape for poverty reduction efforts. Social enterprises, defined as businesses that prioritize social or environmental impact alongside profit, have emerged as key actors in this arena. This introduction explores the impact of social enterprises on poverty reduction in Nigeria, examining their strategies, contributions, and challenges in tackling this pervasive issue. Mair, J., & Martí, I. (2006).
Social enterprises in Nigeria operate across various sectors, ranging from healthcare and education to agriculture and renewable energy. Through innovative business models, these enterprises aim to address root causes of poverty by providing essential goods and services to marginalized communities, creating employment opportunities, and fostering sustainable development. By harnessing market mechanisms for social good, they offer a unique approach to poverty alleviation that goes beyond traditional charity or government intervention. Chukwuma, I. F., & Chukwuma, C. (2018).
The impact of social enterprises on poverty reduction in Nigeria is multifaceted. Not only do they generate economic opportunities for individuals living in poverty, but they also empower local communities by promoting skills development, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance. Moreover, their emphasis on environmental sustainability and social inclusion contributes to building resilient and equitable societies. However, despite their potential, social enterprises in Nigeria face numerous challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory barriers, which can hinder their scalability and long-term sustainability. Osuagwu, L. (2020).
To comprehend the nuanced dynamics of social enterprises in poverty reduction, this study draws upon a diverse range of scholarly literature and empirical evidence. By analyzing case studies, policy documents, and academic research, we can gain insights into the effectiveness, limitations, and best practices of social enterprises in Nigeria. Through this exploration, we aim to deepen our understanding of how these enterprises can drive meaningful and lasting change in the fight against poverty in Nigeria and beyond. Ite, U. E., & Ibemesi, C. (2019).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing recognition of social enterprises as potential drivers of poverty reduction in Nigeria, there remains a significant gap in understanding their actual impact and effectiveness. One key challenge is the lack of comprehensive empirical evidence assessing the outcomes and sustainability of social enterprise interventions in poverty alleviation. While anecdotal evidence and case studies highlight success stories, there is a scarcity of rigorous evaluations that systematically analyze the scale, scope, and long-term implications of these initiatives. Mair, J., & Martí, I. (2006).
Furthermore, the socio-economic context of Nigeria presents unique challenges that may impede the ability of social enterprises to achieve meaningful poverty reduction outcomes. Issues such as political instability, infrastructure deficits, and institutional barriers pose significant obstacles to the scalability and sustainability of social enterprise models. Without a thorough understanding of these contextual factors and their interaction with social enterprise interventions, it is difficult to formulate effective strategies and policies to maximize their impact on poverty reduction in Nigeria. Chukwuma, I. F., & Chukwuma, C. (2018).
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of social enterprises on poverty reduction in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To analyze the employment generation capacity of social enterprises in Nigeria
- 2. To evaluate the access to essential goods and services provided by social enterprises for low-income communities in Nigeria
- To investigate the long-term sustainability of social enterprises in poverty reduction efforts in Nigeria
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What types of jobs do social enterprises create in different sectors and how do these jobs impact the income levels of those employed?
- In what ways do social enterprises increase access to education, healthcare, and financial services for people living in poverty?
- What are the biggest challenges faced by social enterprises in terms of financial stability and achieving social impact in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between social enterprises and poverty reduction in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Entrepreneurship sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Tony Elumelu Foundation. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
