An Evaluation of Women's Participation in Local Governance in Shendam Local Government, Plateau State
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
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- Table of Content: Available
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- NGN 5000
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Women’s participation in governance has been a major area of focus in the global movement for gender equality. In Nigeria, the issue of women’s political participation, particularly at the local government level, has received increasing attention in recent years. Local governance plays a crucial role in addressing the immediate needs of citizens, and the involvement of women in this process can lead to more inclusive, representative, and responsive governance (Danjuma & Ibrahim, 2023). Shendam Local Government in Plateau State offers an insightful case for examining women's participation in local governance, as the region has seen a gradual increase in women’s involvement in politics and decision-making processes.
Historically, women in Nigeria, including those in Shendam, have faced significant barriers to political participation, such as cultural norms, economic inequality, and limited access to education. However, recent efforts to promote gender equality in governance, such as the introduction of gender quotas and affirmative action policies, have begun to yield some positive results (Aminu & Sulaiman, 2024). This study seeks to evaluate the extent of women’s participation in local governance in Shendam and explore the factors influencing their involvement, as well as the impact of their participation on local decision-making and policy outcomes.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite efforts to increase women’s participation in local governance, women in Shendam Local Government still face significant barriers to full political inclusion. These include deeply entrenched gender biases, limited access to resources, and societal resistance to women’s leadership roles. Consequently, women remain underrepresented in decision-making bodies, which hampers their ability to influence local policies and programs. This study will examine the challenges and opportunities for enhancing women’s participation in local governance in Shendam, seeking to identify the underlying factors that limit their involvement and suggest solutions for increasing women’s political empowerment.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of women’s participation in local governance in Shendam Local Government.
2. To examine the challenges that women face in accessing leadership positions in local governance in Shendam.
3. To evaluate the impact of women’s participation in governance on local decision-making and policy outcomes in Shendam.
1.4 Research Questions
1. What is the level of women’s participation in local governance in Shendam Local Government?
2. What are the main challenges that women face in participating in local governance in Shendam?
3. How has women’s participation in local governance impacted decision-making and policy outcomes in Shendam?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
1. Women’s participation in local governance in Shendam has been limited by cultural, social, and economic barriers.
2. Increased women’s participation in local governance has led to more inclusive decision-making and improved policy outcomes in Shendam.
3. Affirmative action and gender-sensitive policies will increase women’s representation in local governance in Shendam.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant in that it will shed light on the importance of women’s political participation at the local level, especially in Shendam Local Government. The findings will contribute to the ongoing discourse on gender equality in governance and offer recommendations for enhancing women’s involvement in decision-making processes. This will have practical implications for policymakers, local government officials, and gender advocates seeking to promote gender-inclusive governance across Nigeria.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on women’s participation in local governance within Shendam Local Government, Plateau State, and does not extend to other regions or levels of government. Limitations include potential biases in the responses from local officials and societal norms that might influence women’s willingness to openly discuss their political engagement.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
• Women’s Participation: The involvement of women in political decision-making processes and leadership positions at the local government level.
• Local Governance: The administration and management of a community or region at the local government level, including the creation and implementation of policies.
• Gender Equality: The principle of ensuring that individuals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities and rights in all spheres of life, including politics and governance.
