Annals of the Social Science Academy of Nigeria 23(1) 2019/23                             DOI: 10.36108/ssan/321902.32.0110


The Significance of Gender Research in the context of Nigeria’s Socio-political and Economic Landscape
Olabisi I. Aina

Abstract

The ability of gender research to illuminate systemic inequalities, inequities and inform policy that will address the deep -rooted structural imbalance embedded in the Nigerian society can not be over emphasized. By examining patterns of power, privilege, and discrimination based on gender, gender research uncovers how socio-political and economic systems perpetuate inequalities, marginalization and privilege groups in our society. It in within this context that this paper proposed some strategies to address this disparities in order to foster more inclusive development. The overall aim of this paper is to demonstrate the role of gender research in the development and implementation of policies and legislation aimed at promoting gender equality. Based on lived experiences across Nigeria ethnic communities, the paper challenged stereotypes and discriminatory practices and seek to give voice to those who have been historically silenced and/or overlooked. The study attempts to answer the following questions: what is the role of men and women in traditional societies including the impact of indigenous beliefs and practices on gender relations and the impact of colonial legacies on gender shifts? What are the gender dynamics in the post-independence era including the impact of military rule, civil wars, and economic shifts from agrarian to capital economy on gender roles? To what extent has contemporary modern challenges and evolving perspectives promoted gender disparities in education, health, politics, and economy in contemporary Nigeria? What is the influence of globalization and international gender rights movements on Nigeria society? How has the various religious beliefs shaped gender norms in Nigeria, and the interplay between practices and gender rights? The conclusion arising from this paper is there is need to promote gender research to urgently address the myriads of socio-political, religious and economic issues that promote social injustice,inequalities, inequities and marginalization in ourcontemporary society. Some strategies and policy recommendations for addressing these disparities to foster more inclusive development in Nigeria were proposed..

Keywords: Gender, Economic systems, Agrarian, Colonial legacy, Globalization, marginalization, traditional societies

 

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