(iPoster) Women’s Movements and the Struggle for Gender Quota in Nigeria

• In Event: Poster Session: Human Rights & Issues in African Politics
  In Poster Session: Poster Session: Issues in African Politics

Abstract

A significant issue within the Nigerian parliament is the alarmingly low number of female representatives. Since the return to democratic governance in 1999, following years of military dictatorship, this area has remained the slowest in the pursuit of gender equality. The pressing question has always been how to increase the number of female Members of Parliament (MPs). Research on women’s representation suggests that gender quota policies are one way to enhance female representation in parliament. Various groups have emerged to advocate for the introduction of gender quota policies in the country. These movements take on different forms and utilize diverse strategies. This study focuses on these groups, their methods of operation, and their impact on the push for gender quota policies in Nigeria. The study is grounded in the "politics of presence" theoretical framework, which posits that women have specific interests that need to be addressed, and therefore, women are best positioned to represent these interests and concerns. The study relies on secondary data sourced from texts, official gazettes, historical documents, and the internet. It identifies various organizations led by women's groups, foundations, NGOs, and religious bodies that employ strategies such as litigation, training, advocacy, lobbying, and pressure tactics against the Nigerian state. Despite these efforts, the implementation of a gender quota policy has not yet been achieved, but the movements continue to persevere in their quest for change in Nigeria.

Author

• Nife Elizabeth Ogunbodede, University of Delaware