Financial Inclusion And Product Usage Among Women Nano And Micro Entrepreneurs In Nigeria: An Empirical Review

This study explores the nexus between financial inclusion and the usage of financial products among women Nano and micro entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Motivated by the need to close gender gaps (SDGs- 5 and 10) in financial access and promote inclusive economic growth (SDG-8), the study synthesizes empirical literature published between 2020 and 2025 in the study area. It organizes findings across six thematic areas: current state of financial inclusion for Nigerian women; patterns of product usage; determinants of inclusion and active usage among nano and micro firms; role of policy and ecosystem interventions; link between financial inclusion and sustainable development outcomes; and persistent gaps and pathways for future research and practice. The review highlights that while account ownership has expanded in recent years, meaningful product usage of credit, insurance, and long-term savings, remains limited for many women-led nano and micro enterprises. Evidence emphasizes the importance of product design aligned with daily cash-flow realities, female agent networks, embedded financial capability interventions, and stronger consumer protection to translate access into sustainable enterprise and household outcomes. The study recommends policies that strengthen financial education, promote fintech innovations, and integrate women-focused financial products into national development strategies to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).