Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 12
2.1 Introduction.. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.2.1 Institutional Theory. 12
2.2.2 Resource Dependence Theory. 13
2.2.3 Human Capital Theory. 13
2.2.4 Intersectionality Theory. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 19
Chapter Three.. 20
Research Methodology.. 20
3.1 Introduction.. 20
3.2 Research Design.. 21
3.3 Population and Sample.. 21
3.3.1 Population.. 21
3.3.2 Sample Size.. 21
3.4 Sampling Techniques. 22
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 22
3.5.1 Primary Data.. 22
3.5.2 Secondary Data.. 22
3.6 Data Analysis Procedures. 23
3.6.1 Quantitative Data Analysis. 23
3.6.2 Qualitative Data Analysis. 23
3.7 Ethical Considerations. 23
3.8 Limitations of the Study.. 24
3.9 Validity of the Instrument. 24
3.10 Reliability of the Instrument. 25
Summary.. 25
CHAPTER FOUR.. 26
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 26
4.1 Preamble.. 26
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
Discussion of Findings. 49
CHAPTER FIVE.. 52
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 52
5.1 Summary of Findings. 52
5.2 Conclusion.. 53
5.3 Recommendations. 54
REFERENCES. 56
Research Questionnaire: Analysis of the Barriers to Entry for Women and Youth Entrepreneurs in Nigeria (A Case Study of Uyo Metropolis). 59
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In contemporary Nigeria, aspiring entrepreneurs face numerous challenges, particularly women and youth entrepreneurs who encounter formidable barriers to entry into the business landscape. These obstacles encompass a spectrum of socio-economic, cultural, and institutional factors that impede their ability to establish and sustain successful ventures. Understanding these barriers is crucial for policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders aiming to foster inclusive economic growth and entrepreneurship in the region. This analysis explores the multifaceted challenges confronting women and youth entrepreneurs in Nigeria, shedding light on both the systemic issues and potential avenues for reform.
To begin with, economic barriers significantly hinder the entry of women and youth into entrepreneurship in Nigeria. Limited access to capital and financial services restrict their ability to secure startup funds and sustain operations, perpetuating a cycle of financial dependency and underinvestment in their ventures (Adelaja, 2020). Moreover, cultural norms and societal expectations often marginalize women in business, constraining their access to networks, mentorship, and market opportunities essential for growth (Obiageli, 2021). These entrenched biases and gender disparities exacerbate the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, stifling their potential contribution to the economy.
Additionally, regulatory hurdles and bureaucratic inefficiencies present formidable barriers to entrepreneurship for Nigerian youth. Complex licensing procedures, ambiguous regulatory frameworks, and inconsistent enforcement pose significant challenges for startups, diverting valuable time and resources away from core business activities (Eze et al., 2022). Furthermore, inadequate infrastructure, including unreliable electricity and limited internet connectivity, further impedes the growth prospects of youth-led enterprises (Olumide et al., 2019). Addressing these structural deficiencies is essential to creating an enabling environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurial success among Nigeria's youth population.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In recent years, Nigeria has seen a surge in entrepreneurial activities, yet significant barriers to entry persist, particularly for women and youths. This study aims to analyze these barriers comprehensively, focusing on socio-cultural constraints, access to finance, and institutional challenges that impede the entrepreneurial ambitions of these demographic groups. Despite policy initiatives and economic reforms, women entrepreneurs continue to face systemic discrimination and cultural biases that limit their access to resources and networks essential for business success (Ojeka & Agwa-Ejon, 2020). Similarly, youths encounter hurdles such as limited access to startup capital, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient support from governmental and non-governmental bodies, which hinder their ability to establish and grow sustainable businesses (Adeleye & Olokundun, 2021).
Understanding these barriers is crucial for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to foster a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria. By pinpointing the specific challenges faced by women and youths, this research aims to propose targeted interventions and policy recommendations that can mitigate these barriers and create an enabling environment for entrepreneurial growth. Moreover, this study seeks to contribute to the broader discourse on gender equality and youth empowerment in the context of economic development, advocating for strategies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusivity within Nigeria's entrepreneurial landscape.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Analysis of The barriers to entry for women and youths entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To identify the primary financial and social barriers faced by women and youth entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
- To analyze the influence of cultural norms and societal expectations on the entrepreneurial aspirations and activities of women and youths in Nigeria.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing government initiatives and support programs designed to empower women and youth entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent do limited access to capital, mentorship opportunities, and business networks hinder the business startup and growth rates of women and youth entrepreneurs in Nigeria compared to established male-owned businesses?
- How do cultural norms regarding gender roles and societal expectations for young adults impact the decision-making, risk tolerance, and overall entrepreneurial participation of women and youths in Nigeria?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of current government programs and initiatives designed to support women and youth entrepreneurs in Nigeria, and how can these programs be improved to better address the specific barriers they face?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant difference in the barriers to entry faced by women and youth entrepreneurs compared to other demographic groups 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 Uyo metropolis. 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.
