Challenges and Opportunities Faced by Women Entrepreneurs in the Informal Sector of Sokoto State.a Case Study of Udus Mini Mart.

ABSTRACT
This study explores the multifaceted challenges and opportunities experienced by women entrepreneurs in the informal sector of Sokoto State, focusing on the UDUS Mini Mart as a case study. Women in this sector are critical drivers of economic growth and community welfare, yet they encounter persistent barriers, including limited access to financial resources, socio-cultural constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient entrepreneurial training. Using a quantitative research design, the study collected data from 150 women entrepreneurs to identify these challenges and assess the avenues available for growth and sustainability.
The findings reveal that financial constraints, such as restricted access to credit and reliance on personal savings, significantly limit business expansion. Socio-cultural factors, including traditional gender roles and societal expectations, further hinder entrepreneurial progress by imposing dual responsibilities on women as caregivers and business operators. Additionally, infrastructural deficits, such as unreliable electricity and poor road conditions, exacerbate operational challenges. Despite these hurdles, the study highlights critical opportunities that empower women entrepreneurs. Access to support networks, including cooperatives and family assistance, provides essential resources and mentorship. The adoption of digital platforms and social media has proven transformative, enabling broader market access and improved marketing capabilities. High local demand for goods and services, combined with entrepreneurship training programs, contributes to business sustainability and growth.
This research underscores the need for targeted interventions to address systemic challenges and amplify opportunities. Recommendations include enhancing financial inclusion through gender-sensitive lending programs, expanding access to entrepreneurial training, improving infrastructure, and promoting policies that foster gender equity. By addressing these issues, stakeholders can empower women entrepreneurs to maximize their potential, thereby driving economic and social development in Sokoto State.