The history of Nigerian politics cannot be fully understood without acknowledging the contributions of women. From the colonial period to the present, Nigerian women have shaped political discourse through activism, advocacy, and leadership, often in the face of systemic exclusion. Their story reflects resilience, persistence, and gradual breakthroughs, though barriers of culture, finance, and political structures continue to hinder full inclusion.
This article traces the role of women in Nigerian politics from the colonial era, through independence, military rule, and the democratic era after 1999, highlighting key figures, landmark events, and ongoing struggles.
Colonial Resistance and Foundations of Women’s Activism
Women’s participation in politics predates independence and was rooted in anti-colonial resistance. The Aba Women’s War of 1929, also called the Aba Women’s Riot, remains a defining moment. Thousands of Igbo women mobilised against new taxation policies and the authoritarian methods of colonial administrators. The movement demonstrated the power of grassroots female mobilisation and set a precedent for later struggles (Awe, 1992).
Another central figure was Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, known as the “Lioness of Lisabi.” She campaigned against colonial taxation in Abeokuta, led the Abeokuta Women’s Union, and co-founded the Nigerian Women’s Union. Ransome-Kuti fought for women’s enfranchisement and broader political rights, linking local struggles with national independence campaigns (Johnson-Odim & Mba, 1997).
By the mid-20th century, women had become visible in nationalist activism, yet they remained marginal in formal political structures, which were dominated by men.
The Independence Era (1960–1966)
At independence in 1960, women in Nigeria had secured the right to vote and contest elections. However, their representation in political office was minimal. Patriarchal norms and male-dominated party structures limited their access to formal politics.
Nevertheless, some breakthroughs were achieved. Margaret Ekpo, a leading nationalist and women’s rights activist, was elected into the Eastern House of Assembly, making her one of the most prominent female politicians of the First Republic. Alongside her, women like Janet Mokelu also won legislative seats, demonstrating that women could succeed in representative politics despite systemic barriers.
These early successes, however, remained isolated, and women continued to face significant exclusion from mainstream political leadership.
Military Rule and Women’s Exclusion (1966–1999)
The 1966 military coup ended Nigeria’s First Republic and ushered in decades of authoritarian military rule. Under successive regimes, political participation was generally suppressed, and women were further marginalised.
During this period, women remained politically active through social movements, trade unions, and civil society organisations. Yet their representation in government was limited, often restricted to token appointments.
A notable initiative was the Better Life for Rural Women Programme (1987), launched by Maryam Babangida, wife of General Ibrahim Babangida. The programme raised awareness of women’s issues and encouraged organisation among rural women. While it was criticised for being tied to the politics of the regime, it helped highlight gender inequalities and inspired women to demand greater visibility.
Despite such initiatives, women’s formal political power remained marginal until the transition to democracy in 1999.
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Democratic Era: Renewed Opportunities and Breakthroughs (1999–Present)
The return to civilian rule in 1999 opened new avenues for women in politics. Although men continued to dominate, women began to secure more positions in elective and appointive offices compared to earlier periods.
Florence Ita-Giwa, a senator in the early democratic era, became a strong advocate for Niger Delta issues. While her role was significant, it was figures like Dora Akunyili and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala who later emerged as more nationally and internationally influential.
Dora Akunyili, as Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), earned acclaim for her battle against counterfeit drugs. She later served as Minister of Information, symbolising integrity and effective leadership.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, appointed Minister of Finance, played a central role in Nigeria’s economic reforms. Her subsequent global recognition culminated in her appointment as Director-General of the World Trade Organization in 2021, making her one of Nigeria’s most celebrated female leaders.
In 2007, Patricia Etteh became the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives. Though her tenure was brief due to controversies, her election was a milestone in the history of women’s political leadership.
Women also began to secure cabinet positions under different administrations. President Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007) appointed several women into ministerial roles, including Okonjo-Iweala and Oby Ezekwesili. However, subsequent governments displayed inconsistency in maintaining high levels of female representation.
Persistent Underrepresentation
Despite visible progress, women remain grossly underrepresented in Nigerian politics. The 2019 general elections illustrated this: out of almost 3,000 elective positions, only 62 women were elected, representing less than 5% of officeholders (British Council Nigeria, 2012; INEC data).
The barriers are multi-layered:
Cultural and religious norms discourage women from pursuing public leadership.
Financial barriers limit women’s ability to compete in Nigeria’s monetised political system.
Electoral violence disproportionately affects women candidates.
Weak enforcement of party gender quotas results in tokenism rather than substantive inclusion.
Why Women’s Political History Matters
The political history of Nigerian women highlights resilience and continuity. From the Aba Women’s War to Ransome-Kuti’s campaigns, from Ekpo’s legislative work to the global recognition of Okonjo-Iweala, women have consistently contributed to the shaping of Nigerian politics.
This history matters because inclusive governance strengthens democracy. Women’s underrepresentation is not simply a gender issue but a democratic deficit. Recognising women as equal partners in governance is essential for building a fairer and more accountable political system.
Author’s Note
The contributions of women in Nigerian politics reveal a pattern of resilience in the face of systemic exclusion. From early anti-colonial struggles to breakthroughs in the democratic era, Nigerian women have demonstrated leadership, advocacy, and courage. Yet, despite these achievements, progress remains slow and uneven. For Nigeria’s democracy to thrive, women must not only participate but be recognised as equal partners in governance.
References
Awe, B. (1992). Nigerian Women in Historical Perspective. University Press Limited.
Johnson-Odim, C., & Mba, N. E. (1997). For Women and the Nation: Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti of Nigeria. University of Illinois Press.
British Council Nigeria. (2012). Gender in Nigeria Report: Improving the Lives of Girls and Women.
