AN EVALUATION OF SOCIETAL PERCEPTIONS REGARDING EARLY MARRIAGE IN NIGERIA: A CASE OF KATSINA STATE

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study In many cultures, marriage is regarded as the point in a woman’s life when having children becomes socially acceptable. Typically, women who marry at a younger age are more likely to experience longer periods of childbearing and, consequently, have more children over their lifetime. Marriage is seen as a social institution that is formalized through public ceremonies, often religious or traditional in nature, and is deeply rooted in the values and customs of the community where it occurs (Kendall, 2016). It brings two individuals into a unique relationship of mutual dependence, usually aimed at starting and maintaining a family. While some societies have set age restrictions for girls entering into marriage, these age limits do not always align with the girls’ physical and emotional readiness for motherhood (Lewis, 2016). In fact, early marriage often fails to consider whether a girl is psychologically and physiologically prepared for the responsibilities that follow (Mathur, 2013). This issue is particularly noticeable in communities such as Ningi Local Government Area (LGA), where early marriage is still a firmly held cultural tradition. The practice in these areas is influenced by a range of complex factors, including poverty, limited access to education, entrenched gender inequality, and long-standing traditional norms. Although specific data on early marriage in Baure LGA might be limited, available research and anecdotal reports show that the practice remains common, especially in remote and marginalized communities. Despite the ongoing efforts by government agencies and non-governmental organizations to curb the trend of early marriage across Nigeria, the results in certain regions—such as Baure LGA—often differ due to specific local dynamics and belief systems. This highlights the importance of region-specific studies that explore the cultural values, societal attitudes, and perceptions that support early marriage. This study, therefore, seeks to investigate societal beliefs about early marriage in Nigeria Katsina State. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Early marriage remains a serious concern in several parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged communities. It is a practice steeped in longstanding cultural, religious, and economic beliefs, and continues to present a barrier to achieving gender equality and broader social development (Eze, 2018). Despite legal frameworks and international commitments aimed at reducing child marriage, its prevalence—especially in Northern Nigeria—remains high, largely due to the strong influence of cultural norms (UNICEF, 2021). One of the key challenges is the widely held belief that marrying girls early helps protect family honor, ensures financial security, and complies with religious expectations (Ifedi, 2016). These deeply rooted beliefs often conflict with efforts to keep girls in school, improve health outcomes, and uphold their human rights. The result is a vicious cycle of poverty, limited education, and poor health outcomes for girls who marry young. Economic hardships also fuel this practice, as some families view marrying off their daughters as a way to ease financial burdens (Ibrahim & Tukur, 2020). The intersection of cultural norms and economic pressures perpetuates the high rate of child marriage, which has far-reaching effects on the education, health, and future potential of the girls involved (UNICEF, 2021). For these reasons, this study aims to assess societal beliefs surrounding early marriage in Nigeria, with a specific focus on Baure LGA in Katsina State. 1.3 Objective of the Study The primary objective of this study is to assess societal beliefs about early marriage in Nigeria, using Katsina State as a case study. The specific objectives include: i. To examine the prevalence of early marriage in Katsina State. ii. To identify the key factors contributing to the persistence of early marriage in the area. iii. To explore the societal beliefs that support and sustain the practice of early marriage in Katsina State. 1.4 Research Questions The study will be guided by the following research questions: i.What is the prevalence of early marriage in Katsina State? ii. What are the major factors contributing to early marriage in Baure LGA? iii. What societal beliefs encourage and uphold the practice of early marriage in Baure LGA? 1.5 Significance of the Study This research holds significance for several key stakeholders: Policymakers: The insights gained from this study can support the development of evidence-based policies and targeted interventions that address early marriage, particularly in rural settings. Government bodies and NGOs can use these findings to create programs that promote gender equality, safeguard adolescent rights, and reduce the socio-economic harms associated with early marriage. Academic Community: The study will add to the growing body of knowledge on early marriage in Nigeria, offering new perspectives and data that can inform future research and scholarly work. 1.6 Scope of the Study This study focuses on societal beliefs surrounding early marriage in Nigeria. The research will examine the prevalence of early marriage in the area, identify contributing factors, and explore community-held beliefs that sustain the practice. Geographically, the study is limited to Katsina State, though the findings may provide insights applicable to other similar communities. 1.7 Limitation of the Study As with any research, certain limitations were encountered during the course of this study: Time Constraints: The researcher had to balance the demands of this research with other academic responsibilities, such as attending lectures and completing other coursework. Financial Constraints: Conducting the study required significant personal funding for activities such as printing, data collection, and sourcing relevant materials, which posed a challenge. Limited Access to Resources: The researcher also faced difficulties in accessing adequate literature and materials on the specific topic due to its sensitive and localized nature 1.8 Definition of Terms Early Marriage: The act of marrying individuals, often adolescents, before the legal age of 18. In Nigeria, such marriages are typically referred to as child marriages when one or both partners are below this age threshold. Societal Beliefs: These refer to the shared attitudes, norms, values, and perceptions held by members of a community regarding important social issues, including marriage, gender roles, and family life. Gender Inequality: The unequal treatment or perceptions of individuals based on their gender. This disparity often manifests in areas like education, healthcare, employment, and participation in decision-making. Socio-Cultural Influences: These include the traditional, cultural, and social factors that shape individuals’ behavior, attitudes, and practices within a society.