Gender Equality: A Pivotal Goal to the Realization of Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines the extent to which gender equality relates to Nigeria's development outcomes and explores whether specific dimensions of inequality—such as access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and political representation—constrain the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Grounded in Sylvia Walby’s postmodern theory, the research employed a descriptive survey design and relied on both primary data (structured questionnaires) and secondary sources. The study population was drawn from Anambra State, with a total of 4,177,828 residents as recorded in the 2006 National Population Census of Nigeria, from which a sample size of 400 respondents was determined using Yamane’s (1967) formula. Data were analyzed using frequency distributions and chi-square tests at the 0.05 significance level. Findings demonstrate a link between gender equality and Nigeria’s prospects of meeting the SDGs, revealing that entrenched inequalities undermine progress across multiple goals. The study concludes that advancing gender equality is not only critical for achieving SDG 5 but also for accelerating progress in poverty reduction, inclusive governance, quality education, healthcare, and economic growth. It recommends strengthening legal and policy frameworks, promoting women’s access to education and resources, addressing socio-economic disparities, combating gender-based violence, and expanding women’s participation in leadership, among others. Thus, achieving gender equality represents a paramount goal for the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria.