Exploring the Financial Inclusion Gap for Humanitarian Aid Recipients in Nigeria

This study explores the Financial Inclusion Gap for Humanitarian Aid Recipients in Nigeria with a focus on the roles of financial literacy, infrastructure, and trust. Employing a quantitative survey design and stratified random sampling across four diverse Local Government Areas (LGAs) – Lagos Island, Alimosho, Mushin, and Ikorodu – data was collected from 400 respondents using structured questionnaires. Contrary to expectations, the findings revealed that barriers to financial inclusion, including financial literacy, trust, and infrastructural limitations, did not significantly impact the effectiveness of humanitarian aid. The study suggests that systemic factors, such as regulatory policies and financial infrastructure, may play a more crucial role in influencing aid delivery than individual financial behaviours. The implications of this research highlight the need for policymakers and humanitarian organisations to prioritise strengthening financial systems and institutional frameworks to optimise financial inclusion and enhance aid effectiveness in humanitarian contexts.