SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHALLENGES IN WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SELF-HELP GROUPS IN AHOADA EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated the socio-economic challenges faced by women in leadership positions within self-help groups (SHGs) in Ahoada East Local Government Area (LGA), Rivers State, Nigeria. The research examined the types of SHGs in which women are involved, assessed their level of participation in leadership activities, evaluated perceived socio-economic implications, identified challenges, and analyzed the relationship between socio-economic factors and women’s leadership involvement. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 110 women leaders. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including linear regression. Findings revealed that prayer groups (90%), savings and credit cooperatives (84%), and women’s cultural organizations (78%) were among the most common SHGs. Women demonstrated a high level of involvement in leadership functions such as decision-making (4.30), strategic planning (4.15), and project management (4.05). The socio-economic implications of their leadership roles included improved family income (4.30), increased decision-making capacity (4.25), and contributions to economic growth (4.35). However, challenges such as limited access to credit (4.40), domestic responsibilities (4.35), and restricted educational opportunities (4.25) significantly hindered women’s active participation. Regression results showed that education, income, leadership experience, access to credit, and age positively influenced leadership involvement, while marital status and household size had negative effects. The study recommended implementing capacity-building programs, promoting family-supportive frameworks, and expanding educational and credit access for women. These interventions will enhance women's leadership in SHGs and, consequently, foster community development and women’s empowerment in Ahoada East LGA. women’s empowerment in Ahoada East LGA.