Effect of household modern appliances on labour force participation of women in Nigeria's informal sector

Abstract

This study identifies major determinants of labour force participation among women in Nigeria, with specific emphasis on ownership of modern household appliances. The study uses primary data, which was obtained through structured questionnaires administered on 400 adult women. Data were analysed using logit regression model. The results show that post-secondary education, religion and ownership of power generating set with washing machine had negative significant influence in the determination of female labour force participation in the informal sector. Furthermore, spouses' occupation in the informal sector and ownership of gas cooker had positive significant influence in the determination of their participation in the informal sector. Overall, the results suggest that as more women make use of modern household appliances, they will participate less in informal activities. Thus, improved participation in formal employment might be furthered by ownership of functional household appliances.