EFFECT OF YOUNG FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS ON SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND JOB CREATION IN NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the effect of young female entrepreneurs on small business development and job creation in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The study adopts a survey research design. A sample of 300 small businesses owned by young female entrepreneurs was purposively sampled; across six local government areas of Nasarawa State, where 292 copies of the questionnaire contained responses were successfully returned, and descriptive statistics were employed to analyze quantitative data. Descriptive analysis was done using a frequency distribution table, means and percentages. Statistical inferences were also conducted using correlation analysis and regression analysis. Arising from the specific objectives through the test of hypotheses, it was revealed that young female entrepreneurs have a significant effect on small business development in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. It is a sure indication that young female entrepreneurs in the Nasarawa state serve as an engine room for business development and employment creation which certainly help reduce the level of unemployment in the State and across Nigeria. The study concludes that to enhance the role of young female entrepreneurs in small business development and job creation, female entrepreneurs need an enabling environment to bring out the best innovative and creative ideas that will always lead to the establishment of businesses and job creation for the development of more firms in Nasarawa State. From the findings and conclusion of the study, it was recommended; that younger female participation needs in the areas of engaging in meaningful entrepreneurial ventures in Nasarawa State and the country of Nigeria. Furthermore, the government should sensitize young girls to go into a small business venture as this is a sure ticket to being independent and self-employed, which will aid in solving the lingering issue of job scarcity in Nigeria.