Gender divergence, a diligent issue tormenting gender orders around the world, alludes to the
unequal treatment and openings experienced by people based on their gender orientation. It is
profoundly settled in in social, financial, social, and political structures, propagating segregation
and preventing advance towards sex correspondence.
The status of women in political leadership is a noteworthy dialog and concern. Whereas
advance has been made, there are still obstructions that prevent women from coming to best
administrative positions in different areas. This writeup explores the multifaceted angles of
gender dissimilarity, its results, and potential approaches to address and destroy this unavoidable
disparity. But when we reflect on how gender inequality manifests itself in our societies, we
regularly think of solid thoughts outlined by impactful numbers such as the gender pay gap or the
number of casualties of residential savagery or domestic violence. These themes are regularly
alluded to when highlighting gender imbalances in our nations, but another exceptionally vital
viewpoint of our social orders is a field of this treachery: legislative issues.
Gender disparity finds its roots in historical contexts where patriarchal systems prevailed. These
systems assigned distinct gender roles, positioning men as the dominant figures in society, while
relegating women to subordinate positions. This entrenched mindset perpetuated a cycle of
inequality, limiting women’s access to education, economic opportunities, and political power.
From women’s rights to modern day feminists, women and men have fought long and hard for
women’s right to vote and hold office. Attitudes towards women’s candidates are still to a great
extent characterized by profoundly imbued generalizations, and political adversaries will
regularly utilize those generalizations to address women’s capabilities. Women’s break through
even in the cooperate, administrative, political and open life are basic to accomplishing the
Sustainability.
In line with global trend, Nigerian women constitute about half of the populace of the nation. But
in spite of the major roles, they play. Women roles within the society are however not given the
needed acknowledgment. Nigeria has been recording low recognition of women in both elective
and non-elective positions. However, concerted endeavors have been made by civil societies and
non-governmental organizations to increase the level of cooperation of women on political
issues. In Nigeria, a 35% affirmative action was recommended for women representation and for
a more comprehensive representation of women with at slightest 35% of both elective political
and appointive open benefit positions respectively. In any case, with equitable activities the
government administration has seen once more an increment in women political support.
This writeup seeks to emphasies more on the following traits, successful women leaders,
challenges women experience in politics and Strategies to address challenges women face.
Whereas these characteristics are commonly among women in legislative issues, it is
exceptionally vital to note that people are multifaceted, extraordinary and special in their own
spaces. Women in politics bring a different range of encounters, abilities, and qualities that
contribute to who they are, who they become and the impact and expertise they bring to the
political arena.

Women in politics have a clear vision and purpose that guides their actions. They have a deep
commitment to public service and a desire to make a positive impact on society. Their vision
inspires others and motivates them to work towards achieving shared goals. They are skilled at
finding common ground, bridging divides, and working across party lines to achieve meaningful
outcomes. They prioritize inclusivity and seek input from diverse perspectives to keen
understanding of the political landscape. They are astute observers, skilled at navigating complex
power dynamics, building coalitions, and forging strategic partnerships. They can leverage their
political acumen to advance their agenda and achieve their goals. There are also known to exhibit
resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks. Determination and persistent effort are key
values their possess such that they are capable of bouncing back from obstacles and maintaining
focus on their goals.
Effective communication is crucial in politics, and successful women in politics excel in this
area. They are articulate, persuasive, and able to convey their ideas and positions clearly to a
diverse range of audiences. They are adept at building connections, forging alliances, and
effectively communicating their vision to constituents. Women in politics often demonstrate high
levels of empathy and emotional intelligence. They possess the ability to understand and connect
with the needs, concerns, and aspirations of their constituents. This empathy enables them to
develop policies that address the diverse challenges faced by their communities.
Most importantly, ethical conduct and integrity are essential traits for women in politics. They
uphold high standards of honesty, transparency, and accountability. They prioritize the interests
of constituents above personal gain and maintain a strong ethical compass in their decisionmaking. This qualifies the optimum resilience their bring in the face of gender bias and
discrimination, challenging stereotypes and breaking glass ceilings. They serve as role models
and inspire other women to enter politics. Most importantly, women in politics recognize the
importance of continuous learning and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. They seek
knowledge, stay informed on current issues, and adapt their approaches to effectively address
evolving challenges.
Notably, deep-rooted gender predisposition and generalizations regularly make obstructions for
women aspiring to leadership roles. Biased ideas around women’s capabilities, such as the
discernment that women are less emphatic or competent in authority, can constrain their
opportunities for advancement. Women are also faced with higher rates of badgering, dangers,
and viciousness compared to their male partners. This will make an unfriendly and risky
environment, driving women to rethink their political aspirations or pull back from public service
altogether.
Underrepresentation of women in leadership positions can perpetuate a cycle of limited
opportunities. Thus when women don’t see themselves adequately represented in top leadership
roles, it can discourage them from pursuing those positions or make it more difficult to break
through existing barriers. This has affected women towards balancing work and family
responsibilities which is often more challenging due to societal expectations and traditional
gender roles. This can lead to limitations in the amount of time and energy, women can dedicate
to career advancement and leadership roles.

There are evident lacks in scarcity of mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance, support,
and opportunities for career advancement. Access to influential networks and advocates is crucial
in navigating the path to leadership positions. Addressing these barriers requires collective efforts
from society, organizations, and individuals. Strategies such as implementing policies promoting
gender equality, fostering inclusive work environments, providing mentorship and sponsorship
programs, and challenging gender stereotypes can help create a more equitable landscape for
women in leadership. This has led to under representation in political offices at all levels, from
local to national. This underrepresentation means that women’s voices, perspectives, and
experiences are not adequately reflected in decision-making processes. It also creates a lack of
role models for aspiring female politicians.
Then comes in the issue of heightened scrutiny and negative media coverage, focusing on their
appearance, personal lives, or demeanor rather than their qualifications. This can deter women
from entering politics or create a hostile environment that discourages their participation. We will
not forget how deep-rooted cultural and societal norms in Nigeria often discourage women from
actively participating in politics. Traditional gender roles and expectations assign women to
domestic and caregiving responsibilities, whereas the menfolk are more encouraged to pursue
political careers. These norms create barriers and stereotypes that limit women’s access to
political opportunities. This has evidently created an absence of supportive policies and legal
frameworks to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment further exacerbates gender
disparity in Nigerian politics. Although Nigeria has made progress in adopting gender-responsive
laws, the effective implementation and enforcement of these laws remain a challenge.
This goes without saying that Patriarchal power structures and systemic separation continues to
block Nigerian women’s advance in political and legislative issues. Male-dominated political
parties and institutions may prioritize male candidates, constraining the openings accessible for
women to challenge and hold political offices.
Addressing gender difference in Nigerian politics requires a comprehensive endeavor from
multiple stakeholders. This incorporates executing certifiable activity measures, such as gender
quotas, to extend women’s representation, providing training and mentorship programs for trying
female politicians, and raising mindfulness to approximate the significance of women’s political
cooperation. It is pivotal to challenge social and societal standards that propagate gender
imbalance and advance comprehensive political forms that value and engage women’s voices and
leadership.
Challenging gender disparity requires a multifaceted approach that addresses systemic
inequalities and promotes gender equality. Here are several strategies that can be employed to
challenge and dismantle gender disparity:
By advancing gender correspondence in schools and colleges, joining comprehensive instructive
module, and raising mindfulness on gender issues. Social orders on the other hand can develop
an era of people who challenge conventional gender roles and generalizations. Financial
reinforcing is basic in combating gender disparity. This will be accomplished by actualizing
increase towards pay policies, progressing women’s business venture and giving back for work-life balance. Further strengthening legal frameworks to protect women’s rights and promote
gender equality is crucial. This includes enforcing laws against gender-based discrimination,
harassment, and violence, as well as ensuring access to justice for victims. Gender quotas or
targets in political representation can also be implemented to increase women’s participation in
decision-making processes.
Encouraging and supporting women’s leadership is essential. Establishing mentorship programs,
leadership training initiatives, and networking opportunities can provide guidance, support, and
opportunities for women to advance in their careers and assume leadership positions. Political
parties should create a support network for prospective aspirant by pairing them with established
women politicians who will be playing key role as mentors and provide capacity building for
young or aspiring female politicians as to enhance and develop them ahead of subsequent
elections. Consequently, Men and boys play an imperative part in challenging gender disparity.
By advancing gender equality, addressing toxic masculinity, and empowering conscious
relationships, they can become allies in destroying patriarchal standards and frameworks.
Academic research and data collection are essential to understand the extent and impact of
gender disparity. This data can inform evidence-based policies and interventions, track progress,
and identify areas that require further attention. Sharing best practices, exchanging knowledge
and resources, and supporting activities that advance gender equality can accelerate progress
universally.
In conclusion, gender difference as a complex issue is entwined with social, financial, social,
and political flow. It undermines human rights, smothers potential and prevents societal advance
in spite of being the foremost crowded nation in Africa, Nigeria still battles with less
representation of women in political spaces. Challenging gender dissimilarity requires supported
endeavors and collaboration over all divisions of society. By executing these procedures, social
orders can endeavor towards a more impartial and comprehensive future, where people of all
sexual orientations have risen to openings and rights. Despite the challenges women are facing,
women activism and advocacy, education of women, positivity on the part of successive
governments towards women empowerment and interest of women to participate in politics is
getting a lot of positive energy, is an indication that the participation of women in politics has a
bright future. Therefore, the relevant stakeholders are advised to advocate for the protection of
women from abuse, empower them economically and politically and review the necessary
proceedings to accommodate the growing interest of women in politics both elective and
appointive positions.

Written By Akputa Udoka

Email: nnabuikeudoka@gmail.com
Instagram: @cedarudoka
Phone: 080-68532862