IMPACT OF STREET HAWKING ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF TEENAGE GIRLS IN EGOR LGA, EDO STATE.

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the impact of street hawking on the development of teenage girls in Egor Local Government Area (LGA), Edo State, Nigeria. Street hawking, a prevalent economic activity in many urban and semi-urban areas, often involves young girls who balance education and household duties with the demands of street vending. The research adopts a quantitative survey approach, with questionnaire to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. Key findings indicate that street hawking adversely affects the educational attainment, health, and social development of teenage girls. The study reveals that prolonged engagement in hawking activities leads to reduced school attendance, increased exposure to health risks, and limited opportunities for social interaction and personal growth. Furthermore, the economic benefits to families are often outweighed by the long-term developmental costs to the girls involved. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy interventions and support systems aimed at reducing the reliance on child labor for economic survival, promoting education, and safeguarding the rights and well-being of teenage girls in Egor LGA.