Investigating the role of Isusu savings scheme as a viable tool for promoting social inclusion: the case study of Udi Community, Nigeria

Most Nigerian communities struggle with social disintegration challenges such as ethnic disputes, differences in socioeconomic status, rural/urban divide, etc. These issues often exclude individuals from belonging to the community, leading to distrust and social isolation (Global Risks Report 2023). Local initiatives have emerged over time to solve the problem in communities, one is the Isusu savings scheme that provides community members with social benefits, and fosters community bonds. Consequently, this paper examines how the Isusu savings scheme plays economic and social functions, contributing to financial security, social inclusion, and social integration in Nigeria. The study focused on the Udi community in Eastern Nigeria as the study area. A qualitative research design using interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires as data collection tools was used to examine whether, and how the Isusu scheme contributes to social inclusion and integration in the Udi Community. Likewise, the study investigated potential barriers within this “almost perfect” scheme that can hinder members' inclusivity and explored potential strategies to overcome these barriers.