The challenge of gender disparity in Nigeria cannot be overemphasised. Rather than bridge the gap existing, the women fall victim of violence and are deprived of their right. And while culture undoubtedly lends a hand to this systemic burden, its implications to the economy are not so overt. In truth, the inability to bridge the existing gender gap in Nigeria comes with significant cost.
- Nigeria ranks 128th of 149 countries in gender equality gap;
- Nigeria stands to increase her GDP by 23% with total women’s inclusion;
- Women’s entrepreneurial skills have the potentials to reduce unemployment rate in Nigeria;
- Facilitating inclusivity in key sectors raises the chances of bridging the inequality gap.
Overview
The gender disparity dialogue is not a new one, least of all in Africa’s most populous country. And its prevalence cuts through almost all facets of society, ranging from economic independence to decision making. Not to mention the regularity of deplorable cultural practices. These and more contribute to Nigeria’s low ranking of 128 out of 149 countries in the Global Gender Gap Index.
Despite this, Nigerian women have provided more reliable and competent labour in crucial sectors over the years. And within them lies great entrepreneurial skills and the potential to boost the economy.
Bridging the Gap
Speaking of the economy, findings show these occurrences hurt the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP); that is besides the obvious sociocultural deficits. Earlier, a McKinsey report noted that inclusivity could further Nigeria’s GDP by 23%. That was in 2019. A year has gone by, and this seems to be a tired conversation. To that end, Dataphyte revisited the topic, outlining key areas, Nigeria could harness this increase.
Education
Education remains an important part of development. An increased participation of female education will improve the gender gap. As it stands, 40% of Nigerian girls are out of school. Regardless, women are flying high in educational attainment with a 50.23% pass. An increase in educational participation will help the course of gender disparity in Nigeria. To achieve this, the government should gear rigorous awareness towards increasing female participation in education. Improving women’s access to education is a vital step towards ensuring gender equality in Nigeria.
Political empowerment
Another significant area is in the political arena. Already, women assume key roles in the society: mother, producer, home manager, community organiser, socio-cultural and political activist. So it begs the question why the low female representation in this sphere? Even despite the 35% affirmative action, which Nigeria is yet to attain.
To improve women’s participation in politics, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) made nomination forms free for women. Likewise, the All Progressive Congress (APC) has a 50% discount for women interested in running for a position under their platform. Nonetheless, these actions, while a start, have still not seen that Rwanda-like revolution. Already in the States, we are seeing the first female Vice President-elect, Kamala Harris. And the good news it spells for gender equality could be the spur Nigeria needs to champion inclusivity in the political space beyond platitudes.
Economic participation
Having attained a great share in entrepreneurship, it shows that Nigerian women can excel in the civil sector. In truth, their success in entrepreneurship stems from their innate leadership qualities. Not to mention the resiliency which comes from systemic exclusivity in the corporate society. Giving the success recorded by women already, they can make a great impact when found in leadership positions. Broadly, Nigeria can achieve this through women’s empowerment.
Health
Women are faced with specific health issues which affect their lifestyle and chances of survival. An improvement in the health of women will increase their life expectancy. Addressing issues like maternal mortality, breast cancer, and other deadly diseases will boost the health of women and increase their chances of active participation.
Finally, placing importance in the girl child will serve as a driving force for attaining gender equality. This will boost the confidence and self-esteem of women and prepare them mentally to thrive in society.
Overview of gender disparity across segments of society
| Context | Women | Men |
| Not Educated | 35% | 22% |
| Earns More | 5% | 84% |
| Asset Ownership | 11% | 37% |
| Average Age of Marriage | 19 | 27 |
| Age of First Sex | 17 | 22 |
| Forced Labour | 66.7% | 33.3% |
| Political Participation | 10.4% | 89.6% |
| Political Leadership | 3.8% | 96.2% |
| Media Exposure | 5.5% | 18.5% |