Effect of Women Empowerment on Poverty Alleviation in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Women empowerment remains a critical pathway for achieving inclusive development and poverty reduction, particularly in developing economies. Despite policy efforts and intervention programmes, women in many rural areas of Nigeria continue to experience limited access to productive resources, skills, and economic opportunities. This study examines the effect of women empowerment on poverty alleviation in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria, with specific emphasis on microcredit schemes and skills acquisition programmes. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. Data were collected from 400 women selected through random sampling from a population of approximately 200,000 women. A structured questionnaire was used as the primary instrument of data collection, while secondary data were sourced from relevant literature. Descriptive statistics and chi-square inferential analysis were employed for data analysis. Findings reveal a statistically significant relationship between microcredit schemes and poverty reduction, as well as between skills acquisition programmes and poverty alleviation in Awka North. The study concludes that women empowerment initiatives significantly contribute to economic improvement, employment generation, and poverty reduction. It recommends the strengthening of women-focused microfinance, expansion of skills acquisition programmes, and improved policy implementation to enhance sustainable poverty alleviation.