A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF GENDER INEQUALITY IN NIGERIA AND ITS IMPACT FOR INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA FROM 1982-2020

A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF GENDER INEQUALITY IN NIGERIA AND ITS IMPACT FOR INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA FROM 1982-2020

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​​​​​​​BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

There has lately been a surge in worldwide interest (including in Nigeria) in working toward gender equality. This is due to the implications that achieving this goal would have for economic growth and development, as well as the need of ensuring that any progress made is inclusive. The issue of gender inequality is considered to be of such grave concern that it is included into the founding documents and legal frameworks of many countries. One of the most essential aims of the Sustainable Development Goals is to realize gender equality and advance the economic and political standing of women and young girls. There have been a number of theoretical contributions that have supported the concept that gender disparity has a detrimental influence on economic growth. Some examples of these contributions are Kuznets (1955) and Sen (1980). The results of empirical studies on the consequences of gender inequality on economic growth are, on the other hand, mixed. Research that has been done before (Egbulonu and Eleonu, 2018; Laura et al., 2018) has demonstrated that the gender disparity has an economic effect on the growth of the economy. According to economic studies (Klasen and Lamanna, 2009; Bandiera and Natraj, 2013), the existence of gender inequality is favorable to the growth of the economy. Researchers and politicians are continually discussing the subject since there are several points of view regarding the impact of gender disparity on economic growth. Despite progress made on a global scale, gender disparity still exists in developing countries, particularly with regard to women's employment and educational opportunities. This is especially true in areas where women are underrepresented in the employment (World Economic Forum, 2018). Inequality between the sexes casts a negative light on both men and women, even if women experience more adverse effects. People who are already at a disadvantage are prevented from participating in the development process and are rendered unable by inclusive economic growth and development (Klasen, 2017). It has both direct and indirect effects on individual health, as well as losses in aggregate productivity, declines in per capita income and consumption (important proxies for inclusive growth), resource waste, below-standard cooperative governance in businesses and governments, and losses or declines in current and potential human resource capacity. These effects can be broken down further into direct and indirect categories (a key driver of growth and development). In other words, once gender equality is achieved in a society, prospects for economic growth — an essential condition for one's well-being — as well as an improvement in the standard of living will increase. As a consequence of this, any action taken to combat gender inequality is extremely important because it has both macro and micro benefits for those who are discriminated against as well as for the economy as a whole. These benefits include supporting inclusive growth by reducing poverty, unemployment, and inequality (IMF, 2013; IMF, 2018). Strong and sustainable growth over an extended period of time that provides a chance for everyone to benefit from it is the definition of inclusive growth (Ali and Zhuang, 2007). It is a growth strategy in which absolutely everyone has the chance to take part in the growth process and gain from it. People from all walks of life may profit from inclusive growth, which assures equity and justice in the process. Changes in the economy and other factors disproportionately affect weak and economic groups. Therefore, growth that results in enormous inequities cannot be sustained over time. In point of fact, growth that exacerbates existing inequities threatens peace, causes insecurity, pressures the disadvantaged and the underprivileged to engage in immoral and unlawful activities, and deepens the divisions that are destructive to society. The majority of political and civil unrest that occurs across the world can be traced back to a lack of access to the advantages of economic growth (Vahabi, 20009). It is a growth strategy that overcomes worries about inequality, unemployment, and poverty due to the fact that it incorporates growth gains that can be shared. Therefore, it is important to pursue a growth strategy known as "inclusive growth" that is beneficial to the entirety of the population. Nevertheless, why do we still have poverty, unemployment, and inequality in this day and age of economic progress? The majority of the world's population lives in poverty, despite the fact that the majority of developing countries (including Nigeria) have met their economic growth targets during the past few decades. Additionally, the gap between the rich and the poor is widening, and the unemployment rate is continuing to rise. According to the latest data from the Brookings Institution's Poverty Report (2018), Nigeria is the world's most impoverished nation. The country's poverty of 180 million people is also home to a staggering unemployment rate of 23 percent (NBS, 2018). At the expense of those who were already at a disadvantage, notably young people and women, the growth benefitted a subset of the population, which primarily consisted of affluent males. According to the data that is currently available, women are disproportionately affected, and it is believed that this is the result of differences in the availability to jobs. In comparison to the male rate of unemployment, which was just 20%, the female rate of unemployment was 26.6%. (NBS, 2018). The population's living conditions have, for the most part, stayed relatively unchanged and, in some circumstances, have actually declined, particularly for women. Despite the fact that the Gross National Income has been expanding at a consistent rate, there is still a significant amount of poverty, unemployment, inequality, and a low standard of life. Nigeria has seen a level of growth that is unparalleled during the course of its history. The potential of the vast majority of citizens was never fully fulfilled since they were unable to participate in the growth process in any meaningful way or at all. In terms of closing the gender gap, Nigeria ranks 122nd out of 144 countries, including both developed and developing nations (WB, 2018). The stark contrast between the expansion of the economy and the aforementioned reality makes it abundantly clear that although if expansion of the economy is a necessary precondition for the improvement of welfare, it is not adequate on its own. Overcoming the non-inclusive nature of growth might be one step toward ameliorating the harsh reality and bad statistics that exist in developing countries such as Nigeria. If men and women are not given equal treatment, it is possible that this will not happen (Laura et al., 2018). Most empirical studies on inequality in Nigeria (Risikat, 2012; Ikechukwu et al., 2014; Egbulonu and Eleonu, 2018) focused on the economic growth – gender inequality nexus but failed to grasp the issues of poverty, inequality, and unemployment. This is despite the potential consequences of gender inequality on inclusive growth and the quest to address fundamental development concerns such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment.

​​​​​​​STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

In spite of the tremendous progress made by the Nigerian women's movement, there remain constraints that prevent it from being fully effective. The failure of activists in women's groups to prioritize, which has led to a segmented women's movement with varying interests, is the fundamental reason for doing this research. Nepotism, mediocrity, and conflicts of interest are commonplace among members of the movement as a result of the widespread corruption in the nation. Despite the fact that some women's groups have little to no coordination, continuity, or sustainability, as well as no clear aims, mission, or vision, Madunagu (2008) stated that their presence has been classified as ad hoc bodies that are useful when the need arises. This is despite the fact that some women's groups have no clear aims, mission, or vision. Since the global economic crisis of 2008, financial support from outside donors, which was once a key source of funding for the majority of women's organizations in Nigeria, has been discontinued. This poses a serious threat to the ability of these organizations to continue the important work that they have been doing. The implementation of projects in Nigeria intended to improve the status of women has been hampered significantly by a number of peculiarities in the process of acquiring money, in addition to the occasional absence of or dearth of cash. Adoption of women's constitutions and the inclusion of women's issues on the agenda have both been hampered by a lack of education, enlightenment, and awareness regarding a substantial political orientation among women. In addition, women's lack of awareness regarding the interpretation of interventions has also been a barrier in this regard. The majority of people are uninterested, and it is difficult to get women to join a powerful union or coalition. It has not been simple to convince people to accept the message of the women's movement since it has not been easy to do so. Even those women's groups that have been established have challenges in terms of management since there is sometimes a lack of self-assurance and trust in the relationships that comprise the movement. A lack of efficient coordination among women's organizations and groups has contributed to the ineffectiveness of the women's movement in Nigeria in establishing national gender policy. This ineffectiveness has been worsened by a lack of adequate coordination. The groups that make up the movement have attempted to work together through coalitions and networks, but their efforts have been fruitless. The failure to hold regular meetings has been a significant obstacle, and as a consequence, there is a paucity of documentation about the activities of NGOs within the movement.

​​​​​​​OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The main aim of this study is to critically analyse gender inequality in Nigeria and its impact for inclusive economic growth in Nigeria from 1982-2020. Specifically, other aims of this study are:

1. To determine whether there is an impact of gender inequality on economic growth in Nigeria.
2. To determine whether there is an impact of gender inequality on the unemployment rate in Nigeria.
3. To determine whether there is an impact of gender inequality on income distribution in Nigeria.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The following research questions will be answered in this study:

1. Is there an impact of gender inequality on economic growth in Nigeria?
2. Is there an impact of gender inequality on the unemployment rate in Nigeria?
3. Is there an impact of gender inequality on income distribution in Nigeria?​​​​

RESEARCH HYPOTHESES

The following null hypotheses will validate this study:

H01: There is no impact of gender inequality on economic growth in Nigeria.

​​​​​​​SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

In terms of gender equity, the majority of studies undertaken by international organizations in the region have been generic. Because of the differences between countries, individual countries and people who experience the phenomenon are required to be examined. This survey provides an opportunity to hear Nigerian women’s perspectives on their access (or lack thereof) to education and the hurdles that prevent them from participating in it. The current research is unique and significant for current Nigerian educational policymakers in general, and Nigerian women in particular. Although there are no direct rewards for participants, revealing cultural influences, constraints, and challenges, as well as identifying the causes that contribute to women’s under representation in the education business, is crucial to implementing institutional adjustments. Obtaining replies from those who are most affected by the issue could give a framework for future research as well as provide information for policymakers, educators, and students involved in decision-making. Women’s reactions and assessments of their needs could influence and inform educational policy, planning, and execution. The study may also serve to raise awareness and pique women’s interest in assessing situations that obstruct their educational potential and looking for ways to alleviate the injustice that prevents them from achieving these goals. The results may also be useful to policymakers as they develop educational policies that are more inclusive of both genders.

​​​​​​​SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study focuses on critically analyse gender inequality in Nigeria and its impact for inclusive economic growth in Nigeria from 1982-2020. Specifically, this study focuses on determining whether there is an impact of gender inequality on economic growth in Nigeria, determining whether there is an impact of gender inequality on the unemployment rate in Nigeria and determining whether there is an impact of gender inequality on income distribution in Nigeria.

​​​​​​​LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

In the course of carrying out this study, the researcher experienced some constraints, which included time constraints, financial constraints, language barriers, and the attitude of the respondents. However, the researcher were able to manage these just to ensure the success of this study.

Moreover, the case study method utilized in the study posed some challenges to the investigator including the possibility of biases and poor judgment of issues. However, the investigator relied on respect for the general principles of procedures, justice, fairness, objectivity in observation and recording, and weighing of evidence to overcome the challenges.

1. 1. DEFINITION OF TERMS

Gender Inequality:

Gender inequality refers to any type of discrimination and inequity that individuals face due to their gender identity.

Economic Growth:

Economic growth is an increase in the production of economic goods and services, compared to those from one period of time to another.

1.10 ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDIES

The study is categorized into five chapters. The first chapter presents the background of the study, statement of the problem, objective of the study, research questions and hypothesis, the significance of the study, scope/limitations of the study, and definition of terms. The chapter two covers the  review of literature with emphasis on conceptual framework, theoretical framework, and empirical review. Likewise, the chapter three which is the research methodology, specifically covers the research design, population of the study,  sample size determination,  sample size, and selection technique and procedure, research instrument and administration, method of data collection, method of data analysis, validity and reliability of the study, and ethical consideration. The second to last chapter being the chapter four presents the data presentation and analysis, while the last chapter(chapter five) contains the summary, conclusion and recommendation.

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