By Ernest Ransome Ofunama
Gender equality is a fundamental human right, yet it remains a significant challenge in Nigeria. Over the years, there are some key issues related to gender equality in Nigeria. These key issues ranges from limited access to education, economic empowerment, violence against women and so on.
Girls and women face barriers when it comes to education, including early marriage, poverty and cultural norms. Their participation in the workforce are limited and they often face discrimination and unequal pay. Women often experience domestic violence, rape and other forms of violence which usually go unpunished.
In the political aspect, women are underrepresented in decision making positions and leadership roles thereby making them feel insecure and not heard. In Nigeria, a female child often goes through harmful traditional practices, such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) or child marriage.
Meanwhile, we sometimes forget to see the importance and significance of a female child. Despite the cultural and societal challenges they face, girls and women play a vital role in Nigeria society.
Female children are often seen as custodians of culture, responsible for passing down traditions, values and customs to future generations. They are often expected to maintain family ties and relationships, ensuring the continuity of family bonds and social cohesion.
Nigerian women are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and female children can grow up to become successful business leaders, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. They are often at the forefront of community development initiatives, driving social progress and improving the lives of those around them.
They are many ways to promote gender equality in Nigeria like national policy on gender, gender and equal opportunities bill, women’s empowerment initiatives, increased representation and awareness campaigns. All these are efforts that can be made towards the progress of gender equality.
Addressing the challenges women face in Nigeria will require sustained efforts from governments, civil society organizations and individuals to promote gender equality and empower women and girls. We can work towards creating a more equitable society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Ofunama is a Mass Communication Student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babagidan University, Lapai, Niger State.
