Gender Inclusion and Internal Party Democracy in Nigeria: Assessing the Impact of Quota Systems on Women’s Political Participation (2015–2024)

Abstract: This article explores the involvement of women in Nigeria's democratic processes between 2015 and 2024, highlighting a notable decline in their political participation and representation. It underscores the connection between gender equality and sustainable development, emphasizing that true national progress is unattainable when a significant part of the population is marginalized. The Nigerian political landscape has traditionally been dominated by gender disparities, largely driven by the patriarchal framework of society. The rejection of key gender-focused legislation by a male-dominated parliament represented a missed opportunity to advance gender inclusivity and equality aligned with sustainable development goals. Utilizing a Liberal feminism perspective, the study advocates for gradual improvements through equal rights advocacy and supportive policies. Employing content analysis and drawing on secondary data sources, the research identifies various challenges—cultural, economic, and legal—that restrict women's political engagement. It concludes that despite their capabilities in public and private sectors, women often face a cycle of barriers that impede their leadership potential. These challenges are deeply rooted in societal biases, patriarchy, the struggle to balance family and career aspirations, and limited networking opportunities. The study advises that women should actively seek leadership roles and pursue higher education. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of encouraging parents, particularly in rural areas, to prioritize the education of their daughters to prepare them for future leadership roles.

Gender, Internal Party, Democracy, Feminisim

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