Abstract

This study investigates the socio-economic impact of community dramatic performances as a catalyst for financial inclusivity, security, and empowerment among rural dwellers in Niger State, Nigeria. Driven by the persistent challenge of financial exclusion, the research posits that a culturally resonant and participatory medium like community drama can effectively bridge the gap between traditional practices and formal financial systems. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilized pre- and post-intervention quantitative surveys with 300 respondents, alongside qualitative data from in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) tools. The findings reveal a marked increase in mean financial-literacy scores, awareness of digital financial services, and self-reported adoption of risk-mitigation behaviours following the performances. The creative elements of storytelling, humour, and local music appeared to simplify complex financial concepts for participants. The study also documents substantial perceived socio-economic benefits, including increased savings awareness, improved household resilience, and enhanced entrepreneurial capacity. A notable finding concerns the model's capacity to shift gender norms, with respondents reporting a positive association between exposure to the dramatic performances and increased women's confidence in financial decision-making. The study concludes that community drama is a promising and culturally grounded tool for development, offering a bottom-up complement to poverty-alleviation efforts, and proposes a replicable framework for integrating creative education with financial services to foster self-reliant communities.