Entrepreneurship Development and Youth Unemployment in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between entrepreneurship development and youth unemployment in Anambra State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the persistent challenges of high youth unemployment, low income levels, and job insecurity, which undermine economic growth and social stability in the state. Specifically, the research examined the relationship between creativity and labour market demand; investigated the relationship between skill development and wage level; evaluated the relationship between self-efficacy and job security; and assessed the relationship between risk-taking and wage level among youths in selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Anambra State. Four research questions were developed, and four hypotheses were formulated in line with the specific objectives. The study was anchored on the Human Capital Theory by Schultz (1961) and the Keynesian Economic Theory of Employment by Keynes (1936). The study adopted a survey research design. The population comprised 57,710 unemployed youths across twelve selected LGAs, with a sample size of 397 determined using Taro Yamane’s formula. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, validated through face and content validity, and tested for reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha, which yielded values above 0.70 for all constructs. Out of 397 copies of questionnaire, 365 copies were valid for analysis. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson Product Moment Correlation at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed a strong positive and significant relationship between creativity and labour market demand; skill development and wage level; and risk-taking and wage level; while self-efficacy showed a moderate but significant positive relationship with job security. The study concluded that entrepreneurship development competencies significantly influence youth employability, income, and job security in Anambra State. It recommended targeted programs to enhance creativity, skill acquisition, self-efficacy, and risk-taking among youths.