Gender Disparity in Nigerian Laws: A Critical Analysis of Legal Discrimination Against Women

Aderibigbe Adeyemi John (Lead City University)
Ala Modupe Oziofu (Lead City University)

Jurnal Ilmiah Administrasi Publik dan Pemerintahan
Vol 5, No 2 (2026): Jurnal Ilmiah Administrasi Publik dan Pemerintahan (JIAPP) - August

The main aim of this study is to examine the disparity affecting the Nigerian women in statutory matter. The objective of gender goes beyond biology; The main aim of this study is to examine the disparity affecting the women folk in statutory matter. The concept of gender goes beyond biology; it is deeply shaped by social and cultural expectations regarding roles, behaviors, and attributes assigned to men and women. In Nigeria, historically rooted legal laws have often marginalized women, reinforcing gender inequalities and obstructing their progress. This study adoppted descriptive design that analyzes laws that discriminate women in all strata of life by employing content analysis of secondary data to explore these issues. Furthermore, certain legal provisions permit unequal pay and benefits for men and women performing identical roles, exacerbating economic inequality. Maternity leave policies also fall short, often offering inadequate time off and limited support for affordable childcare, making it challenging for women to balance their professional and family lives. These discriminatory practices impact women’s economic empowerment, curbing their career growth, reducing their earning potential, and perpetuating damaging stereotypes about gender roles. The impact of these laws extends beyond individual women, impeding broader social progress by failing to tap into the capabilities of half the population. Addressing these disparities demands urgent reform to establish equitable workplace policies, including equal pay for equal work, adequate maternity leave, and accessible childcare. It is also essential to implement stronger protections against workplace discrimination and harassment. Reforming Nigeria’s legal landscape to support gender equality not only ensures justice for women but is also essential for national economic growth and societal cohesion. Achieving true gender parity in the workplace requires bold legislative action to secure a fairer and more inclusive future for all Nigerians.