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Microfinance Evolution in Nigeria: A 20-Year Impact Assessment and Global Contextualization
Subject area: Management and Commerce · Area of research: Microfinance and Financial Inclusion
Abstract
This study critically evaluates the evolution and developmental impact of microfinance in Nigeria since the formal adoption of the National Microfinance Policy in 2005. By combining empirical data, comparative insights, and practitioner perspectives, the paper situates Nigeria?s experience within broader global trends in financial inclusion. The analysis highlights not only achievements but persistent structural and regulatory shortcomings that hinder the transformative potential of microfinance. Recommendations are made for systemic reforms, capacity building, and digital adaptation, with a vision for resilient, inclusive financial architecture aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union?s Agenda 2063.
Keywords
Development Finance, Financial Inclusion, Microfinance, Microfinance, Regulation, Nigeria
References
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[11] GSMA. (2023). State of Mobile Money in Africa.
[12] International Labour Organization. (2021). Microinsurance and Livelihoods in Africa. ILO Social Finance Program.
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[15] Ledgerwood, J. (2013). The New Microfinance Handbook. World Bank.
[16] Mayoux, L. (2001). Tackling the downside: Social capital, women's empowerment and micro-finance in Cameroon. Development and Change, 32(3), 435–464.
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[18] Sanusi, L. S. (2021). Microfinance banking in Nigeria: Problems and prospects. CBN Economic and Financial Review, 59(2), 45–62.
[19] UNCDF. (2022). Pathways to Financial Health.
[20] Women’s World Banking. (2020). Gender Lens in Financial Inclusion; The Impact of Microloans on Women's Empowerment.
[21] World Bank. (2022). Nigeria: Financial inclusion and development. https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/nigeria/publication/financial-inclusion
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How to cite this paper
@article{1709165,
author = {Adetunji Afolabi},
title = {Microfinance Evolution in Nigeria: A 20-Year Impact Assessment and Global Contextualization},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2025},
volume = {8},
number = {12},
pages = {1735-1740},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1709165.pdf},
abstract = {This study critically evaluates the evolution and developmental impact of microfinance in Nigeria since the formal adoption of the National Microfinance Policy in 2005. By combining empirical data, comparative insights, and practitioner perspectives, the paper situates Nigeria?s experience within broader global trends in financial inclusion. The analysis highlights not only achievements but persistent structural and regulatory shortcomings that hinder the transformative potential of microfinance. Recommendations are made for systemic reforms, capacity building, and digital adaptation, with a vision for resilient, inclusive financial architecture aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union?s Agenda 2063.},
keywords = {Development Finance, Financial Inclusion, Microfinance, Microfinance, Regulation, Nigeria},
month = {June},
}