Socio-Economic Activities of Urhobo Migrant Women in Ilorin, 1970–2023

Abstract

This study examines the socio-economic activities, trade specialisations, and survival strategies of Urhobo migrant women in the multicultural, predominantly Islamic frontier city of Ilorin, Kwara State, from 1970 to 2023. Utilising a historical-descriptive methodology, the research relies primarily on oral history interviews with elderly women, traders, and community leaders, complemented by secondary sources to build a comprehensive narrative. Findings demonstrate that Urhobo women carved out distinct commercial niches, moving beyond traditional dependency narratives to establish dominant roles in both informal and formal economies. Specifically, they managed lucrative cross-regional supply chains: bulk distributing palm oil, exporting dried meat (tiko) to the Niger Delta, transporting cassava flakes (garri) to northern Nigeria, and importing northern beans to local markets. Furthermore, many engaged in localised garri processing within the Ilorin metropolis or secured formal government wage employment. To build capital and mitigate economic marginalisation, these entrepreneurs strategically utilised traditional rotating credit associations (esusu) and ethnic unions like the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Women’s Wing, Agbon Union, Urhobo Ladies Club. By successfully navigating complex socio religious and cultural boundaries within their host community, Urhobo women maintained their cultural identity while reinforcing interregional trade resilience. Ultimately, this study challenges male-centric migration frameworks and highlights the structural agency of non Yoruba minority female entrepreneurship in Northern-Yoruba boundary urban spaces.