Misogyny is hatred, discrimination, or prejudice against women, and it emanates in every sphere of life: education, work, politics, and healthcare. In Nigeria, misogyny cuts down opportunities and slows down progress. A proper understanding of it means the beginning of change toward gender equality.
1. Misogyny Affects Women’s Access to Education
Girls in Nigeria face many challenges en route to school. According to UNICEF, there are 10.5 million out-of-school children, most are girls. Some force girls into marriage and forbid them from continuing their education.
According to Girls Not Brides, 44 percent of the girls in Nigeria are married off before they attain the age of 18 years. Upon marriage, most girls drop out of school.
Uneducated, they therefore face limited chances of obtaining good jobs or leaving the poverty level .
2. Misogyny Creates Unequal Pay for Women
Women in Nigeria earn less than men for the same work. The World Economic Forum reports that Nigerian women earn 23% less than men. Many women also work in jobs that do not provide job security, benefits, or promotions.
Women who want to start businesses also face challenges. Many banks require property as collateral for loans. Since many women do not own land, they struggle to get the money they need to grow their businesses.
3. Misogyny Keeps Women Out of Leadership
Women in Nigeria hold fewer leadership positions in politics and business. In government, women occupy less than 7% of elected positions. This means most laws and policies are made without women’s voices.
Many workplaces also favor men for leadership roles. Even when women have the same qualifications as men, they are less likely to get promoted to top positions. This makes it harder for women to influence decisions that affect them.
4. Misogyny Increases Violence Against Women
Many women in Nigeria experience violence at home, at work, and in public spaces. The National Demographic and Health Survey reports that 31% of Nigerian women have faced physical violence. Many do not report these cases because they fear being blamed or ignored.
The Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act was created to protect women from abuse. However, not all states in Nigeria have adopted the law, making it difficult to protect victims.
5. Misogyny Limits Women’s Access to Healthcare
Women in Nigeria face serious health risks because of gender discrimination. Nigeria has one of the highest maternal death rates in the world. According to the WHO, about 58,000 Nigerian women die every year from pregnancy-related causes.
Some women need permission from their husbands to go to the hospital. Others cannot afford medical care or live in areas with no hospitals. These challenges put women’s lives at risk and increase health problems for families.
How to Fight Misogyny
Ending misogyny requires action from governments, businesses, and individuals. Schools must give equal opportunities to boys and girls. Workplaces must pay men and women fairly. More women must be encouraged to take leadership roles. We need more laws to protect women from violence and discrimination.
Conclusion
To research misogyny and gender discrimination, visit genderpedia.ng/shop for valuable resources.
