Despite making up nearly half of Nigeria’s population, women remain vastly underrepresented in government. From the local councils to the federal level, female participation in political leadership is glaringly low, leaving critical voices unheard and vital perspectives missing from decision-making. This disparity is not unique to Nigeria, but its deep-rooted socio-cultural and political structures have created significant barriers for women to engage in governance. The consequences are profound: policies often fail to address women’s needs and interests, and the nation’s potential for balanced, inclusive development is undermined.
To grasp the current state of women’s political participation in Nigeria, it is essential to explore the historical and cultural context that has shaped their roles in society. Traditionally, Nigerian women have been relegated to domestic roles, with societal norms favouring male dominance in public and political spheres. Pre-colonial Nigeria saw women in powerful positions in various kingdoms, but colonialism introduced Western patriarchal systems that further entrenched gender inequality. These structures have persisted, creating a political culture that largely excludes women.
Cultural beliefs continue to play a significant role in limiting women’s participation in politics. In many parts of Nigeria, women are still viewed as caregivers and homemakers, while men are seen as the natural leaders. This perception discourages many women from seeking political office, as they face societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles. Additionally, some communities discourage women from speaking in public or voicing opinions, which can stifle their ambition and reduce opportunities for leadership development.
Another major reasons for the underrepresentation of women in government is the educational gap that exists between men and women. Although Nigeria has made strides in improving access to education for girls, disparities still exist, especially in rural areas. Many girls in rural and undeserved areas do not complete their education due to financial constraints, early marriage, or cultural practices that prioritise boys’ education over girls’. This lack of education limits women’s ability to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in governance.
Nigerian political parties play a crucial role in the underrepresentation of women in government. Party structures are typically dominated by men, and internal party politics often favour male candidates. Women are frequently sidelined in decision-making processes and are rarely given the opportunity to run for high-profile positions. This is due in part to the deeply ingrained gender bias that exists within these parties. Women are often perceived as weak or incapable of leading, a stereotype that continues to be perpetuated by male-dominated political groups. Political violence and the use of intimidation tactics in Nigerian politics also deter women from participating. Elections in Nigeria are often marked by violence, and the political environment can be hostile, particularly towards women. Many women are discouraged from running for office due to fears for their safety, as well as concerns about the impact of political involvement on their families.
Another significant factor contributing to the underrepresentation of Nigerian women in government is the lack of female role models in politics. When young women do not see others like them in leadership positions, they are less likely to aspire to such roles. While Nigeria has had notable female leaders in the past, such as Dora Akunyili and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, their numbers are few compared to their male counterparts. The absence of women in visible political roles perpetuates the notion that politics is a male domain. Additionally, there is a lack of mentorship and support networks for women aspiring to enter politics. Many successful politicians rely on networks of mentors and allies to guide them through the political landscape, but women often lack access to such resources. This lack of mentorship makes it more difficult for women to navigate the complex world of Nigerian politics and rise to leadership positions.
While Nigeria has signed several international conventions and agreements aimed at promoting gender equality, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), implementation has been weak. The country lacks robust legal frameworks that mandate gender quotas in political representation. Countries such as Rwanda and Senegal have implemented gender quotas, resulting in significant increases in the number of women in government. However, Nigeria has yet to adopt similar measures, and without legislative backing, progress remains slow. Efforts to pass gender equality bills in Nigeria have been met with resistance, particularly from conservative lawmakers who argue that such policies conflict with cultural and religious values. This resistance has stalled attempts to enshrine gender quotas or other measures that would ensure greater female representation in government.
Addressing the underrepresentation of women in Nigerian government requires different approaches. One of the most effective ways to increase female representation in government is through the introduction of gender quotas. These quotas would mandate that a certain percentage of political positions be reserved for women, ensuring that female voices are included in governance. Advocacy efforts should focus on pushing for legislative reforms that support the implementation of gender quotas at all levels of government.
Increasing access to education for girls, especially in rural areas, is crucial for building a pipeline of future female leaders. Government and non-governmental organisations should invest in leadership development programmes that empower young women with the skills and confidence they need to pursue political careers.
Financial barriers remain a significant obstacle for women seeking political office. Political parties, NGOs, and international organisations should establish funds that provide financial assistance to female candidates. Additionally, women’s access to campaign resources, such as media coverage and campaign staff, should be improved to ensure they have a level playing field.
Political parties need to be more inclusive and provide greater opportunities for women to participate in leadership roles. Internal party structures should be reformed to eliminate gender bias, and parties should actively recruit and support female candidates.
The hostile political environment in Nigeria discourages many women from participating in politics. Measures should be taken to reduce political violence and intimidation, ensuring that women can campaign and serve in office without fear for their safety. This includes strengthening the role of law enforcement in protecting candidates and ensuring that election laws are enforced. Also, mentorship programmes that connect aspiring female politicians with experienced leaders can help women navigate the challenges of political life. Networks of support, both within and outside political parties, can provide women with the guidance and resources they need to succeed in politics.
Long-term change will require a shift in societal attitudes towards women’s roles in leadership. Public awareness campaigns and education programmes that challenge gender stereotypes and promote the value of female leadership are essential. Families, schools, and communities should be encouraged to support women’s aspirations to enter politics.
Ensuring that women have an equal voice in decision-making is not only a matter of justice but also critical to the country’s development. When women lead, societies thrive, and Nigeria has much to gain by empowering its women to take their rightful place in government.
