Assessing gender dynamics in Nigerian democracy: a comparative study of women's political participation and representation

Azeezat Oluwaferanmi Adekanye and Damilola Taiye Agbalajobi

Chapter 10 in The Elgar Companion to Democracy and Development in Africa, 2026, pp 174-192 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter examines the trajectory of women's political participation in Nigeria's democratic process from the return of civilian rule in 1999 to the present. Drawing on secondary data sources including electoral commission reports, academic studies, and civil society publications, it analyzes quantitative and qualitative indicators of participation such as voter turnout, party membership, candidacy rates, and appointment to executive positions. By situating women's political participation and representation alongside male participation rates and regional benchmarks, the analysis highlights both progress and persistent disparities with respect to gender gaps. The findings reveal that although women constitute nearly half of the electorate, their representation in elective and appointive offices remains disproportionately low. Structural barriers such as patriarchal norms, financial constraints, limited party support, and inadequate legal frameworks continue to marginalize women's voices. The chapter concludes by recommending an integrated strategy to enhance gender parity in Nigeria's democracy.

Keywords: Democracy; Nigeria; Political Participation; Political Representation; Women (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035348176
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