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

ABSTRACT: This study critically analyses gender inequality in Nigeria and its Impact for inclusive economic growth in Nigeria from 1982-2020. Specifically, the study determines whether there is an impact of gender inequality on economic growth in Nigeria, determines whether there is an impact of gender inequality on the unemployment rate in Nigeria, and determines whether there is an impact of gender inequality on income distribution in Nigeria. The study employs the survey descriptive research design. A total of 30 responses were validated from the survey. The study adopts the functionalist theory. From the responses obtained and analysed, the findings reveals that there is an impact of gender inequality on economic growth in Nigeria. Furthermore, the findings revealed that there is an impact of gender inequality on the unemployment rate in Nigeria. The findings further reveals there is an impact of gender inequality on income distribution in Nigeria. The study recommends that regarding women’s health, governments could promote reproductive health and family planning services to reduce health and economic burdens associated with maternity. The study further recommends that policy makers need to take a holistic approach in identifying and supporting the antecedents of value added services. The study further recommends that on the employment side, implementation of affirmative action policies can increase women’s participation in the higher echelons of government and the private sector.