Key Takeaways

• It is expedient to educate everyone on the societal importance of equality and the need to build a positive mindset toward women’s empowerment. The massive inclusion of women in various aspects of society could potentially improve the economy and ensure sustainability.

• Women need to invest in their values and their growth. This would enable them to gain financial freedom and decrease vulnerabilities.
• “There’s something so special about a woman who dominates in a man’s world. It takes a certain grace, strength, intelligence, fearlessness, and the nerve to never take no for an answer.” ― Rihanna

Introduction

The month of March is often celebrated as women’s month. As it marks women’s day and Mother’s Day most significantly. Amidst these celebrations, it is necessary to raise awareness of the marginalization of women in the world today; particularly, in Nigeria. Which will serve as a case study for African society.

In the year 2023, which has been characterized by technological advancements and innovations, Nigeria still ranks as a third-world country with so many prospects. A great nation with so much potential in terms of human intelligence and natural resources, but yet, still a long way to go to meet up with digitalization. According to a recent article in The Guardian, the Nigerian Federal Government revealed that over 17 million Nigerians are currently living in different countries of the world. The brain drain has been massive even in lucrative industries such as health care, finance, and technology, as we see many Nigerians holding top positions in these countries. The slang “Japa” has even become a norm among youths of the nation which for better or worse is a means of leaving the country for greener pastures.

The inclusion of women in more vital roles in the Nigerian economy can foster more creative and sustainable solutions for the system. Nigeria is a male-dominated industry, and the continued exclusion of women can be sighted in the few points below;

• Fathers remain the main and sometimes, only providers in an average household.
• Only 6% of women have seats in the National assembly, as of 2019.
• There has never been a full tenure of a woman as a state Governor in Nigeria.
• Within the social media space, most young females are stuck with the mindset of depending on men financially.
• Women have mostly subordinate roles in workplaces.
• Sexual abuse

It is without a doubt that the combination of financial, educational, political, health, and cultural independence is critical to women’s empowerment in Nigeria.

But the main question is… If women are given a chance, how will they perform?

With the continuous rise of globalization, it has become imperative for women, especially in African society to discard traditional norms and inhabit innovative perspectives. Given this, this article will focus on the need for women’s development in this new world and the prospective future.

The Need for Women’s Empowerment & Involvement

The New World (Technological Advancement)

As elaborated in the introduction part of this article, technology is the new order of the day. So, the big questions are, how can you use technology to make a positive impact? How can technology influence your life decisions and those around you positively? How can technology positively shape the structure of Nigeria?

Notice the emphasis on “positives” in those questions. This is because technology can also have negative effects as it is. Young women these days use social media mainly for posting content that is fashion, erotic, dance, and fun related respectively leaving out content that could foster respect and recognition for their gender. These are just a few of the negative implications of technology on women. Meanwhile, the internet can be beneficial for the following reasons.

• Job search. Social media apps like LinkedIn, indeed, Jobber man, and Glassdoor have paved the way for making it easier to get discovered by employers worldwide.
• Skill acquisition. There have emerged in recent times, educational websites, apps, and platforms can empower people to gain sustainable skills which will enable them to stand out from the crowd.
• Making money. There are also several ways of Making money legally online today. E-commerce, and channels such as YouTube, Shopify, Spotify, and so on have made their platforms monetary for people with creative and marketable content.
• Connecting, meaningful socializations, innovations, and solutions. The internet has practically enabled an online community where humans around the world can stay connected for social, business, gaming, education, and religious means; amongst others, to evolve.
• Pursuit of Gender Equality: The campaign for gender equality should not be a seasonal speech, it should hold the lips of all concerns and should be carried out respectfully.
• Political Campaign support: Nigeria has not recognized the effects of the female gender politically, therefore females should hold their ground for such rights to be voted for on the same grounds as their male counterparts. These should be heard in their social media engagement and gatherings.

Financial Independence (Investing)

The high unemployment rate in Nigeria plays an important role in the financial independence of women. This situation has brought about an increase in individualism and capitalism in the nation. Hence, making many female graduates depend on little or no income or depend on other resourceful characters for financial support. On the other hand, most male graduates can hustle on their own out there to earn a living.

Women need to invest in their values and their growth. This would enable them to gain financial freedom and decrease vulnerabilities.

Certain Financial firms offer Investment opportunities, financial advisory, and capital raising at different levels for different individuals. One of these firms includes MainStreet Capital whose primary mission is to deliver adaptive financial solutions and guidance to individuals and institutions that propel socio-economic growth and development. The company enhances its values on innovation and sustainability and can be a preferred choice of wealth partner to turn to when in need of financial freedom, advice, and wealth management.

When a woman acquires financial stability, it comes with a sense of respect and satisfaction that cannot be challenged. It is however important for women to gain some level of financial literacy that will enable them to make better decisions and seize rewardable opportunities.

Take The Right Turn now!

Socio-economic Impact (Involvement)

Men and women are different biologically, and psychologically. But both still acquire the same knowledge educationally, religiously, and socially amongst others. Yet, there remains a constant exclusion of women in practically all spheres of public life.

The need for women’s involvement and empowerment is essential for the economic stability of any nation. According to statistics, Nigerian women are yet to achieve a steady level of personal well-being for profitable economic activities. Inaccessibility to health care, education, and participation in decision-making has hampered women’s growth.

The government however plays a critical role in these developments. In recent times, executive orders have been granted for the increase in women’s participation in politics. Establishments and projects have also been set up for women’s empowerment. But are these motivating enough? The achievements and rewards for women who distinguish themselves should not go unnoticed. This will enable more women to be more active in the socio-economic system of the nation, and perhaps foster more creative solutions for the economy.

Furthermore, women supporting women within society irrespective of tribe or status is also a key factor in boosting economic involvement. As Nigeria is a multi-ethnic society, with different class groups. 

The table above shows the socio-economic challenges women face within different classes of age groups and the 6 geo-political zones in Nigeria. As seen in total, Lack of financial empowerment, access to quality education, and gender inequality accumulate the highest percentages.

The table above reflects the suggestions for resolving the socio-economic challenges women face In Nigeria within the 6 geo-political zones and different age group classes. As seen from the highest accumulated total, education, government and non-governmental programs, health care, and home(family), play influential roles in empowering women more in Nigeria.

Conclusion (Recommendation)

It is expedient to educate everyone on the societal importance of equality and the need to build a positive mindset toward women’s empowerment. The massive inclusion of women in various aspects of society could potentially improve the economy and ensure sustainability. This would also increase respect and decrease vulnerability among women. Why not encourage women to lead? why not encourage women to challenge themselves? why not encourage women to take on more responsibilities and get involved in decision-making at workplaces, government, activities, and developments?

In this long line of questions, the most appropriate answer is to act. A different level of emotions and psychology can be more appreciated today.

As a woman reading this article, I urge you to explore your inner virtues, go into the world and be unique. There is no limit to what you can achieve.

 Here are some takeaway quotes to sustain your quest for a better tomorrow.

• “As women achieve power, the barriers will fall. As society sees what women can do, as women see what women can do, there will be more women out there doing things, and we’ll all be better off for it.” — Sandra Day O’Connor
• “It’s not about being perfect. It’s not about where you get yourself in the end. There’s power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.” — Michelle Obama, “Becoming”
• “There’s something so special about a woman who dominates in a man’s world. It takes a certain grace, strength, intelligence, fearlessness, and the nerve to never take no for an answer.” ― Rihanna

References

• Mainstreet Capital, 2022
• The Guardian, 2020
• Daily Trust, 2021
• NOI Polls,2021