Study of the Impact of Early Marriage on Women’s Economic Empowerment in Sokoto State

Early marriage continues to affect a significant proportion of girls in North West Nigeria, with long-term consequences for their educational attainment, economic participation, and social mobility. This study investigates the impact of early marriage on women's economic empowerment in Sokoto State, focusing on married women aged 18 to 35 in Sokoto and Wamakko Local Government Areas. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with structured questionnaires administered to 240 women selected through purposive sampling from community women's groups and market associations. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Spearman rank correlation. Findings show that 71% of respondents were married before the age of 18, and those who married early demonstrate significantly lower rates of formal employment, business ownership, and financial autonomy compared to those who married after 18. Early-married women also report lower levels of household decision-making power, restricted mobility, and limited access to financial services. Access to vocational training and microfinance is associated with improved economic outcomes even among those married early. The study recommends strengthened enforcement of the Child Rights Act in Sokoto State, investment in non-formal education for out-of-school girls, and expansion of women-targeted microfinance and skills development programmes. Keywords: early marriage, economic empowerment, women, Sokoto State, gender