Breaking barriers: The impact of girls' education on poverty eradication in northern Nigeria – A Focus on Sokoto State

This research explores the critical role of girls' education in alleviating poverty in Sokoto State, Nigeria. It highlights the significant gender disparities in educational access, driven by cultural norms that prioritize boys' education, which impede both individual potential and broader economic growth. The research underscores that educated women contribute to workforce participation and family income, thereby fostering community development and reducing poverty. Despite some progress, challenges such as socio-cultural attitudes, inadequate infrastructure, and economic constraints persist, necessitating a multi-faceted approach involving policy reforms and community engagement. The study employs a mixed-methods methodology, revealing that while enrolment rates have improved, gender inequities remain pronounced. It advocates for targeted interventions and community involvement to shift perceptions and enhance girls' educational opportunities, ultimately aiming for sustainable development goals in Northern Nigeria.