Contributions of women workforce to the Nigerian economic growth from 1990 to 2022

Yin-Yin Huang, Horng Jinh Chang, Tsung Min Chen, Timothy A. Aderemi, Rowland Bassey

Abstract

The study employs descriptive and econometric methods in examining the contribution of women's participation to the economic growth of Nigeria from 1990 to 2022. Data sources employed were World Bank Development Indicators. Through examination of the data, the study finds that industry remains the largest employer of women in Nigeria, followed by the agricultural sector. Besides, the contribution of female employment in agriculture, services, and manufacturing sectors on Nigerian economic growth was found to be negative although statistically insignificant. Similarly, the female labor participation rate also does not have any significant effect on the economic growth of the nation. In response to these findings, the study recommends that Nigerian policymakers and other stakeholders’ direct investment to the industrial, service, and agricultural sectors in order to promote SDG 8—inclusive economic growth—through increased involvement of women in the working population. Gender balance also must take center stage in recruitment exercises in these sectors as a method of reducing discrimination against women in jobs

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