EXPLORING THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN NATION BUILDING: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS IN EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

Women in Nigeria, like those in other developing nations, have a long history of contributing to the building of their nation. Regardless of age, gender, social or religious standing, or origin, everyone should have a place in the development plan’s implementation of any nation. Likewise, women and men should have equal opportunities in all spheres of society, including nation building.  This calls for a more nuanced exploration of the role women play in sustainable nation-building. To achieve this the study sought to; assess the extent of women’s representation in political leadership positions in Edo State, identify the role of women in development matters in Edo State, learn about the obstacles that women face in fulfilling their responsibilities pertaining to Nation Building, provide suggestions on how women might have a greater role in nation-building. The study was exploratory in nature as it was anchored on the inequality theory as its theoretical framework. The study adopted the use of questionnaire as a means of primary data, while literatures that were found related and relevant to the study formed part of secondary data. Women ideas and contribution was shown to have potential in improving both quality and outcomes of public life. More so, they contribute to shaping the direction of Nigeria politics significantly.  Gender parity across political spheres in Edo State remains a lofty dream resulting in poor  women  empowerment,  lopsided political  structures  and  low  women’s involvement in politics. Stemming this negative tides will require an explicit specifications  and  clear  guidelines  for  modalities  and implementations of women inclusive policies that  enhance  women’s  empowerment and participation in governance should  be  developed and deployed. The current women empowerment policy should be reviewed to reflect the actual situation and that government should also establish a network of women leaders so that women can share their leadership successes and challenges to inspire other women who aspire to be leaders. Edo State government should as a matter of priority commit resources and make deliberate commitment towards women’s empowerment, development and better integration into the main stream political system and above all, women must put themselves out there to be seen and heard rather than relying on mere government concessions.