Nature of Leadership Practices of Nigerian Female Entrepreneurs

Abstract

The study empirically explores the diverse types of leadership styles adopted by female entrepreneurs in Nigeria to see if there are any commonalities or differences in leadership styles adopted. The study seeks to ascertain whether the leadership style adopted has an influence on firm performance, using three leadership dimensions. Data was obtained from face-to-face questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews. A total of 138 female entrepreneurs engaged in diverse sectors participated in the study. The results reveal differences in leadership practices, female entrepreneurs with formal educational qualifications were seen to adopt more transformational leadership. The findings indicate that leadership practices adopted has a significant influence on firm growth. The study has several implications as it helps fill gaps in knowledge in relation to female leadership practices in Nigeria. It is hoped that the findings derived from this study will instigate the development of a theoretical framework on leadership in Nigeria.

Keywords: Small and Medium Enterprises, Female Entrepreneurs, Nigeria, Leadership practices, Gender