Affirmative Action And Genders Quality In Nigeria: A Study Of The 35 Percent Policy

Abstract

This study critically examines the role of affirmative action in fostering gender equality in Nigeria, with a particular focus on the 35 Percent Affirmative Action Policy (35% AAP). Introduced to mitigate entrenched gender disparities in political participation and representation, the policy’s progress has been uneven and fraught with challenges. This paper delves into the historical context, the implementation dynamics, and the socio political barriers impeding the policy's success. By employing a mixed-methods approach, the findings highlights the policy’s limited successes in increasing female political participation while underscoring systemic obstacles such as weak legal enforcement and cultural resistance. The study advocates for strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing public awareness campaigns, and fostering community engagement to overcome these barriers. The research contributes significantly to understanding affirmative action’s potential and limitations in promoting gender equality, offering actionable insights for policymakers, scholars, and advocates.