Citizens’ Perception on Gender Equity and Inclusion in Nigeria: Evidence from the 2024 National Social Cohesion Survey

Abstract

Gender and social inclusion are key components of Nigeria's pursuit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, especially SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). This study examined citizens’ perception on gender equity in education, politics, and family inheritance. Federal Government efforts in promoting gender equality in Nigeria were rated, and gender equity in education across Southern and Northern Nigeria was equally examined. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design. The study population include all Nigerians aged 15 years and above. A sample size of 5,465 citizens was pooled from 36 States, including FCT. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed in line with study objectives using SPSS version 27. A substantial proportion, 87% of males and 88% of female Nigerian citizens, agreed and strongly agreed that boys and girls should have equal access to education. There is a significant difference (p < 0.001) between Northern and Southern Nigeria regarding the accessibility of boys and girls to education. Region-specific intervention is needed to achieve uniform progress towards gender and social inclusion. There is a need for increased policy enforcement and monitoring to ensure that the principle of educational equality is well established in all parts of Nigeria.