ABSTRACT

The mass media may have a crucial role in either reinforcing, or challenging such inequalities. Television, radio, newspapers and film have long been recognised as key players in society: helping to define people’s sense of taken-for-granted normality (see Eldridge et al., 1997). “The role of Mass Media in promoting Gender equality in Nigeria in Nigeria in Nigeria”. This study examines the problems, first, defining the importance of women to participate in politics, social and economic life in Nigeria. The survey research method was employed in this study and questionnaires were used for data collection, then the hypotheses were tested using chi-square statistical procedure to reach a definite conclusion. The results reflect that Mass Media have positive impact in Promoting women to participate in politics, social and economic life in Nigeria. In summary, Mass Media is found wanting in fostering development for gender equality in politics, social and economic life in Nigeria. In recommendations, suggestion of ways to stimulate female participation was made by looking at practical examples of how this was done in the pre-colonial era. Finally, in conclusion, The need for gender equality is simply the thing to do especially in this age of globalization and change. The need has not been more urgent in the current political dispensation in Nigeria, leaders must provide political developmental program that will propel women in economic, political and social development.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1    BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Gender has become one of the “fault-lines” running through the political landscape of Nigeria. Since independence in 1960, Nigerian women have been challenging their role in society. The formation of women movement in the country has lent an impetus to the struggle of women and helps put women issues in the front burner. Consequently, a few Nigerian women have been appointed to important position and pocket of them have won election. The elections of 2003 in the country have not given a push to women; rather the elections have served as dividing lines between women and men. Consequently, “gender politics, social and economic life in Nigeria” has polarized Nigeria political landscape into two camps. The first camp is predominantly dominated by those who want to maintain societal traditions. The second camp is populated by women who are in pursuit of dismantling the patriarchal structure of society. Many studies have considered the issue of women’s marginalization in Nigeria. For examples, Ejiogu (1982) considers barriers placed to keep women from prestigious positions. Lewis (1980) in her fascinating studies focuses on women’s role in African society, their contributions, and the reason women have been excluded from development programs. Byrne et al, (1986) Afonji(1981) maintains that modernization theory cannot explain female subordination in Nigeria. Thestudy use Yoruba women as a case study, and concludes that the value places on women as biological and sociological reproduction function.