THE EFFECT OF EDUCATION AND GENDER ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN NIGERIA. A CASE STUDY OF GOMBE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, GOMBE STATE.

TITTLE PAGE THE EFFECT OF EDUCATION AND GENDER ON WOMEN’S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN NIGERIA. (A CASE STUDY OF GOMBE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, GOMBE STATE) BY MUHAMMAD SIRAJO BELLO UG19/EDPS/1001 ADAMU ALHASSAN UG19/EDPS/1039 IBRAHIM KAWU UG19/EDPS/1045 MARCH, 2025 THE EFFECT OF EDUCATION AND GENDER ON WOMEN’S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN NIGERIA. (A CASE STUDY OF GOMBE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, GOMBE STATE) BY MUHAMMAD SIRAJO BELLO UG19/EDPS/1001 ADAMU ALHASSAN UG19/EDPS/1039 IBRAHIM KAWU UG19/EDPS/1045 A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE EDUCATION, FACULTY OF EDUCATION IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELORS DEGREE OF SCIENCE EDUCATION CHEMISTRY, GOMBE STATE UNIVERSITY MARCH, 2025 DECLARATION We hereby declare that this project is our own research work and to the best of our knowledge this work has not been submitted anywhere for awarding degree, and all references are duly acknowledged. MUHAMMAD SIRAJO BELLO (UG19/EDPS/1001) ALHASSAN ADAMU (UG19/EDPS/1039) IBRAHIM KAWU (UG19/EDPS/1045) CERTIFICATION This is to certify that this project carried out by MUHAMMAD SIRAJO BELLO (UG19/EDPS/1001), ALHASSAN ADAMU (UG19/EDPS/1039), and IBRAHIM KAWU (UG19/EDPS/1045) of the Department of Arts and Social Sciences Education, Faculty of Education, Gombe State University meets the partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of B.Sc.(Ed.) Political Science and is approved for its contribution to knowledge. Mr. Jarumi T Aliyu Project Supervisor Signature Date Prof. CZ Sabe Head of Department, Signature Date Department of Arts and Social Sciences Education Prof. Oluwasanumi A. Adepoju Dean, Faculty of Education Signature Date External Supervisor Signature Date DEDICATION This research project is dedicated to the parents of the researchers; Alhaji Muhammad Bello, Hajiya Fatima Muhammad, Malam Muhammad Kawu, Malam Abdulrasheed Jumah and Muhammad Adamud respectively. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We are most grateful to the source of our wisdom and strong pillar of our life, The Almighty Allah for making it possible for us to carry out this project successfully and for seeing us through from beginning to the end of this course. We sincerely wish to acknowledge our project supervisor Mrs. Jarumi Timothy Aliyu who inspired, encourage and guide us through this research. We are indebted to the dean of Faculty of Education Professor O.A Adepoju, the head of department of Arts and Social Sciences Education and all esteem lecturers. Thank you all for your effort. Furthermore, our appreciation also goes to our mother’s Fatima Muhammad, Mariya Abubakar and Sa’adatu Abubakar,Also, to our fathers; Alh. Muhammad Bello, Alh. Malam Kawu and Mal. Adamu Abdullahi Bojude for their moral, social and financial support throughout our studies. We are immensely indebted and sincere grateful for the members of our family for their support throughout of the study period especially our sisters; Fatima Muhammad Usman, Asiya Muhammad Bello, Zainab Muhammad Bello, Maimuna Abdullahi, Balkisu Sulaiaman, Hafsat Muhammad Bello, Mastura Muhammad Bello and brothers; Rislan Muhammad Bello, Umar Muhammad Bello, Abubakar Muhammad Bello, Usman Adamu, Abubakar Adamu, Muhamma Adamu, Bashir and Abdurrahman Ibrahim Kawu for support and understanding. We sincerely thank all the lecturers for the knowledge they impacted on us, We will also like to express our appreciation to our course mate and well-wishers for their valuable and contribution throughout our period of study. ABSTRACT This research examined the Effect of Education on Women's Political Participation in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. This study is a descriptive research work of a survey design. The study population comprised women in Gombe Local Government Area. The sample consisted of 350 women drawn randomly from the population. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire. The data collected was analyzed using mean, percentage, and frequency distribution for answering research questions. The findings showed that education significantly influences women's political participation and efficacy. It was also observed that gender stereotypes, lack of education, and limited access to resources are major barriers to women's political participation. The study concluded that education empowers women to participate more effectively in politics and that addressing these barriers can promote women's political participation and empowerment. The study recommended that policymakers and stakeholders should prioritize education and training programs for women, promote gender equality, and provide support for women in politics to enhance their participation and effectiveness. Table of Contents TITTLE PAGE i DECLARATION iii CERTIFICATION iv DEDICATION v ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS vi ABSTRACT vii Table of Contents viii CHAPTER ONE 1 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 Background to the Study 1 1.2 Statements of the Problem 3 1.3 Objectives of the Study 5 1.4 Research Qestions 5 1.5 Statement of Hypotheses 6 1.6 Significance of the Study 6 1.7 Scope of the Study 7 1.8 Assumptions: 8 1.9 Operational Definition of Terms 8 CHAPTER TWO 10 2.1 Introduction 10 2.2 Conceptual framework 10 2.2.1 Concept of education 11 2.4.1 Education and Political Participation 17 2.4.2 Gender and Political Participation 18 2.4.3 Education, Gender, and Political Participation in Nigeria 18 2.5 Summary and uniquesness of the study 19 CHAPTER THREE 21 3.1 Introduction 21 3.2 Research Design 21 3.3 Areas of the Study 22 3.4 population of the study 22 3.5 Sample and sampling technique 23 3.6 RESEARCH INSTRUMENT 26 3.7 Administration of Instrument 26 3.8 Validity of Instrument 26 3.9 Reliability of the Instrument 27 3.10 Method of Data Analysis 27 CHAPTER FOUR 28 Table 4.1: Respondents' Opinion on the Relationship between Education Level and Political Participation among Women 28 Table 4.2: Respondents' Opinion on the Impact of Gender on Political Participation among Women 29 Table 4.3: Respondents' Opinion on the Existence of Barriers to Women's Political Participation 29 Table 4.4: Respondents' Opinion on the Influence of Education on Women's Political Efficacy 30 Table 4.5: Respondents' Suggestions for Promoting Women's Political Participation and Empowerment 31 5.1 Summary 33 5.2 Conclusion 34 5.3 Recommendations 35 5.4 Suggestions for Further Studies 36 5.5 Limitations of the Study 36 5.6 Contribution to Knowledge 37 REFERENCES. 38 APPENDIX 40 APPENDIX II 46 CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background to the Study The concept of political participation is very important especially in a democratic set up or in an ideal society. Democracy itself assume high level of participation and it could be direct or indirect involvement. Generally, there are various factor affecting the level at which some people participate while some do not participate. The topic “Effect of sex and education on political participation in Nigeria” will measure why some are apathetic and why some feel alienated. Participation in politics is a civic duty or responsibility in which every citizens of a particular society are expected to perform. Herbert Mclosky on his part sex political participation as those voluntary activities by which members of a society share in the selection of rulers and directly or directly in the formulation of public policy. Political philosophers over the years have extolled political participation as defense against misrule of tyranny. The above definition implies that political participation is an integral part of democracy. The more “active” forms of participation include formal enrollment in a party, canvassing and registration of voters, working in campaigns, competing for public and party offices donating money for a political programmes and attending political rallies etc. The relationship between education, gender, and political participation has been a subject of interest for scholars and researchers in recent years (Karlsson, 2018; Coffé & Bolzendahl, 2017). Education is widely regarded as a crucial factor in promoting political participation, as it enhances an individual's cognitive abilities, increases their awareness of political issues, and provides them with the skills and knowledge necessary to participate in the political process. It’s necessary to note that people are not compelled to participate in politics but a civic responsibility. Political participation is influence by different factors. These factors account for why people participate and why they do not. Therefore, they possess some psychological traits like apathy, cynicism, alienation and anomies. Another reason why people do not participate in the political process can be attributed to the level of development in terms of political, social and economical aspects of the society. Meaning that modern society given their level of development participates effectively than the primitive or traditional societies who are less developed in terms of socio-economics and political aspect of life. In Nigeria, education has been recognized as a key factor in promoting political participation and good governance (National Bureau of Statistics, 2019). The Nigerian government has made significant efforts to increase access to education, particularly for women and girls, who have historically been disadvantaged in terms of educational opportunities (UNESCO, 2020). Despite these efforts, Nigeria still faces significant challenges in terms of promoting political participation, particularly among women. Women's participation in politics in Nigeria is hindered by a range of factors, including cultural and religious barriers, lack of access to education and economic opportunities, and violence and intimidation (International Foundation for Electoral Systems, 2019). In Gombe State, where this study was be conducted, women's participation in politics is particularly low. According to a study conducted by the National Democratic Institute (2018), women's voter turnout in Gombe State was significantly lower than that of men, and women's representation in political offices was also relatively low. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of education in promoting political participation among women in Nigeria. A study conducted by Oyekanmi (2018) found that education was a significant predictor of political participation among women in Nigeria. Another study conducted by Olaniyi (2019) found that educated women were more likely to participate in politics than uneducated women. In terms of the relationship between gender and political participation, recent studies have highlighted the importance of addressing the cultural and religious barriers that hinder women's participation in politics. A study conducted by Abiola (2019) found that cultural and religious barriers were significant obstacles to women's participation in politics in Nigeria. Another study conducted by Afolabi (2020) found that addressing these barriers was crucial to promoting women's participation in politics. This study intends to investigate the existing literature on the relationship between education, gender, and political participation in Nigeria, with a specific focus on Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. The study was examined the impact of education on political participation among citizens in Gombe Local Government Area, and explore the barriers to women's political participation in the area. It is generally believed hat males are more politically conscious as compared with their female counterparts vis-a-is functional literate people participate actively in politics than semi-literate or ill-educated. This has explained or given credence to the relationship that exist between education, gender and political participation in Nigeria. Thus we are using Gombe Local Government Area as a case study to either confirm or falsify the statement. 1.2 Statements of the Problem Problem solving is an integral part of our daily activities. It is certain that problem must exist before solutions are provided. In most developing states like Nigeria where greater number of illiterate and female in the ever increasing population, are prevalent, government tend to be oligarchic and falsely democratic Studies shown that men are more politically active than woman. This is largely because the average education level of women is lower than that of men. Women constitute more than half of the adult’s population but fewer women run for public offices or are elected. If political participation is a sufficient condition to test a democratic government, then it is relevant to probe into why women refuse to participate in greater number, if the constituting or political system calls for it. Education is widely recognized as a critical factor in promoting political participation. However, in Gombe State, educational attainment is extremely low, particularly among women. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (2019), the literacy rate in Gombe State is just 52.1%, with women making up only 43.6% of literate adults. This lack of education not only limits women's ability to participate in the political process, but also undermines their ability to access other opportunities and resources. The low level of political participation among women in Gombe State is also exacerbated by a range of cultural and religious barriers. Women in the state are often socialized to prioritize domestic and family responsibilities over political engagement, and are frequently excluded from decision-making processes at the household and community levels. Additionally, women who do attempt to participate in politics often face significant obstacles, including violence, intimidation, and discrimination. The lack of political participation among women in Gombe State has significant implications for democratic governance and development in the state. When women are excluded from the political process, their interests and needs are often ignored, leading to policies and programmes that fail to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women. The lack of political participation among women in Gombe State undermines the ability of government to effectively respond to the needs of all citizens. When women are excluded from the political process, they are unable to contribute their perspectives and experiences to policy-making, leading to policies and programs that are often ineffective and unsustainable. In light of these challenges, this study aims to investigate the impact of education on political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. The study was also examined the cultural and religious barriers that hinder women's political participation in the area, and explore strategies for promoting women's political participation and empowerment. 1.3 Objectives of the Study The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of education and gender on people's political participation in Nigeria, using Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State as a case study, and to identify potential factors that influence political engagement among different demographic groups. While the specific objectives include: 1. To examine the relationship between education and political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. 2. To investigate the impact of gender on political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. 3. To identify the barriers to women's political participation in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. 4. To examine the effect of education on women's political efficacy in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. 5. To recommend strategies for promoting women's political participation and empowerment in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. 1.4 Research Qestions 1. What is the relationship between education level and political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State? 2. How does gender affect political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State? 3. What are the barriers of women's political participation in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State? 4. To what extent does education influence women's political efficacy in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State? 5. What strategies can be employed to promote women's political participation and empowerment in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State? 1.5 Statement of Hypotheses The following hypotheses are formulated to guide the study: (H0) There is no significant positive relationship between education level and political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. (H0) There is no Difference in Political Participation Between Men and Women: Women are equally likely to participate in politics as men in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. (H0) There is no significant Effect of Cultural and Religious Barriers on Women's Political Participation: Cultural and religious barriers do not significantly hinder women's political participation in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. (H0) There is no Positive Effect of Education on Women's Political Efficacy: Education does not have a significant positive effect on women's political efficacy in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. (H0) There is no Effectiveness of Strategies in Promoting Women's Political Participation and Empowerment in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. 1.6 Significance of the Study The following are potential beneficiaries of this study which include Policy makers, . Citizens of Gombe Local Government Area, Civil Society Organizations, Researchers and Academics and Government Agencies. Policy Makers at the local, state, and national levels can benefit from the study's findings, which can inform policy decisions and improve democratic governance. Citizens of Gombe Local Government Area will also benefit from this study because the study's findings can empower citizens of Gombe Local Government Area to participate more effectively in the democratic process and to hold their leaders accountable. Civil society organizations can benefit from the study's findings, which can inform their advocacy and outreach efforts aimed at promoting democratic governance and civic engagement. Researchers and academics can benefit from the study's contribution to the literature on political participation in Nigeria, which can inform future research and policy analysis. Government agencies responsible for promoting democratic governance and civic engagement can benefit from the study's findings, which can inform their programs and initiatives. 1.7 Scope of the Study The content area covered for the purpose of this study or projects are gender and education. gender and education shall be critically analysed and examined. The basic concern is to study human behaviour with regard to political activities. The research focus on how the variables to be tested affect political participation in Nigeria. Our case study is Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. 1.8 Assumptions: 1. Education Enhances Political Participation: It is assumed that education enhances an individual's interest to participate in the political process. 2. Gender Influences Political Participation: It is assumed that gender influences an individual's ability and willingness to participate in the political process. 3. Cultural and Religious Factors Affect Women's Political Participation: It is assumed that cultural and religious factors in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State, affect women's ability and willingness to participate in the political process. 4. Education Empowers Women Politically: It is assumed that education empowers women to participate in the political process and to access their rights and interests. 5. Women's Political Participation is Essential for Democracy: It is assumed that women's political participation is essential for the health and legitimacy of democracy in Nigeria. 1.9 Operational Definition of Terms Education: education refers to the formal educational attainment of individuals, including primary, secondary, and tertiary education. It encompasses the knowledge, skills, and values acquired through formal educational institutions, which can influence an individual's cognitive abilities, critical thinking, and participation in civic activities.. Gender: gender refers to the socially constructed roles, responsibilities, and expectations associated with being male or female in a given society. It encompasses the cultural, social, and economic differences between men and women, which can influence their access to resources, opportunities, and participation in political activities. Political Participation: refers to the various activities that citizens engage in to influence the selection of political leaders and the policies they pursue. This encompasses a range of actions, including voting, donating money to candidates or causes, working for campaigns, running for office, writing letters to officials, and signing petitions Gombe Local Government Area : Gombe Local Government Area refers to one of the eleven local government areas in Gombe State, Nigeria, which serves as the case study area for this research. It encompasses the geographical, administrative, and socio-political context within which the study's respondents reside and participate in political activities. CHAPTER TWO REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 2.1 Introduction This chapter provides an overview of the conceptual framework that underpin the study on the effect of education and gender on Women's political participation in Nigeria, using Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State as a case study. It clarifies the key concepts related to political participation, education, and gender, which are pivotal to understanding the research objectives. The chapter aims to examine the theoretical framework that explain the relationship between education, gender, and political participation, providing a conceptual basis for understanding how these factors intersect to influence citizens' engagement in democratic processes. By establishing a clear understanding of these conceptual and theoretical frameworks, this chapter lays the groundwork for the subsequent chapters, which will delve into the research methodology, data analysis, and findings. By synthesizing the existing literature on this topic, this chapter aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between education, gender, and political participation in Nigeria. This will provide a solid foundation for the empirical analysis presented in subsequent chapters. 2.2 Conceptual framework The conceptual frameworks underpinning this study are rooted in the interrelated concepts of education, gender, and political participation. These concepts form the foundation for understanding the complex dynamics that shape Womens' engagement with the political process, particularly among women in Nigeria. By examining the intersections of education, gender, and political participation, this study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors that influence political engagement and empowerment among Women of Gombe Local Government Area of Gombe State. This chapter was delved into the conceptual framework, exploring the key dimensions, relationships, and dynamics that shape the research landscape. 2.2.1 Concept of education Education has been conceptualized and defined in various ways by scholars across disciplines. According to UNESCO (2018), education is "a fundamental human right and essential for the exercise of all other human rights." It is "a powerful driver of development and one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty, improve health, and increase economic growth" (UNESCO, 2018). From a sociological perspective, education is viewed as a social institution that transmits knowledge, values, and norms from one generation to the next (Durkheim, 2016). Emile Durkheim (2019) defines education as "the influence exercised by adult generations on those that are not yet ready for social life." Similarly, Talcott Parsons (2020) views education as a mechanism for socializing individuals into the norms and values of society. From a psychological perspective, education is seen as a process of cognitive development, where individuals acquire knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable them to adapt to their environment (Piaget, 1954). Jean Piaget (1954) defines education as "a process of continuous reconstruction of experience." Furthermore, education has also been defined as a tool for empowerment, where individuals acquire the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to participate fully in society (Freire, 2017). Paulo Freire (2017) views education as "a practice of freedom," where individuals learn to read the world critically and develop a sense of agency to transform their social reality. Overall, these definitions highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of education, which encompasses social, cultural, psychological, and economic dimensions. 2.2.2 Concept of political participation Political participation has been defined in various ways by scholars. According to Albert Meister (2012), political participation is "the action or actions of private citizens by which they seek to influence the selection of public policy-makers and the policy outputs themselves." Similarly, Sidney Verba and Norman Nie (2022) define political participation as "those voluntary activities by which members of a society share in the selection of rulers and, directly or indirectly, in the formation of public policy." David Easton (2015) views political participation as "the process by which individuals and groups communicate their demands to the authorities and influence the making of public policy." Robert Amorin (2017) defines it as "the act of influencing the government or the policies of the government." Carole Pateman (2020) defines political participation as "the activity of citizens in the political process, including voting, campaigning, and other forms of political activity." Philip Converse (2019) views it as "the process by which individuals and groups seek to influence the policies and decisions of government." Arend Lijphart (2017) defines political participation as "the involvement of citizens in the political process, including voting, party membership, and other forms of political activity." More recent definitions include Russell Dalton's (2008) view of political participation as "the actions citizens take to influence the policy decisions and leadership of their community." Pippa Norris (2002) defines political participation as "the voluntary actions of citizens intended to influence government policy, either directly or indirectly." Kay Lehman Schlozman (2012) views it as "the activity of citizens aimed at influencing government decisions, including voting, contributing money, contacting officials, and joining organizations." These definitions highlight the various ways in which scholars have conceptualized political participation, emphasizing its importance in democratic governance. 2.2.3 Concept of Gender in politics The concept of gender plays a pivotal role in understanding women's engagement in politics, particularly in the context of your research on "The Effect of Education and Gender on Women's Political Participation in Nigeria." Gender encompasses the socially constructed roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male or female, which significantly influence individuals' experiences and opportunities in the political sphere. In Nigeria, traditional gender roles often position men as leaders and decision-makers, while women are expected to focus on domestic and caregiving responsibilities, limiting their participation in politics. Women in politics also face stereotypes and biases that can undermine their credibility and effectiveness, as well as gender-based discrimination that can hinder their ability to access resources, opportunities, and networks. These challenges can result in women's underrepresentation in political offices, limiting their ability to influence policy and decision-making processes. By examining the impact of gender on women's political participation in Gombe Local Government Area, your research can shed light on the specific barriers and opportunities that exist for women in this region. Ultimately, understanding these dynamics can inform strategies for promoting greater inclusivity and equity in political participation, strengthening Nigeria's democracy and enhancing the representation of women's interests in governance. 2.3 Theoretical framework This study is anchored on two theoretical frameworks: the Social Role Theory and the Human Capital Theory. These frameworks provide a lens in which to examine the effect of education and gender on people's political participation in Nigeria. The Social Role Theory, developed by Eagly (1987), posits that individuals' behaviours and attitudes are shaped by the social roles they occupy, including gender roles. On the other hand, the Human Capital Theory, developed by Becker (1964), suggests that education and skills acquisition are crucial for individuals' participation in the labor market and civic engagement. By combining these two theories, this study aims to explore how education and gender intersect to influence individuals' political participation in Nigeria, using Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State as a case study. 2.3.1 Social learning theory The Social Learning Theory (SLT), developed by Albert Bandura, posits that people learn new behaviors, attitudes, and knowledge by observing, imitating, and modeling others. This theory suggests that learning is a cognitive process that occurs through observation, imitation, and reinforcement. In the context of your research, which investigates the effect of education and gender on people's political participation in Nigeria, SLT can provide valuable insights. Educated individuals, for instance, may observe and imitate the political behaviors of others, such as voting, protesting, or joining political parties, which can reinforce their own political participation. Moreover, education can provide opportunities for individuals to model their behavior after politically active peers, teachers, or community leaders, thereby enhancing their self-efficacy and motivation to participate in politics. On the other hand, gender can also play a significant role in shaping political participation through SLT. Women, for example, may be socialized to adopt less politically active roles, while men may be encouraged to take on more active roles, which can influence their observation, imitation, and modeling of political behaviors. Furthermore, women may face less reinforcement for political participation, such as social disapproval or lack of recognition, while men may face more reinforcement, such as social approval or recognition. By influence the political engagement of men and women in Nigeria, and how education can either reinforce or challenge these traditional gender roles. 2.3.3 Resource Theory The Resource Theory is a fundamental concept in political science, posits that individuals' participation in politics is significantly influenced by the resources they possess, which can be tangible, such as income, education, and occupation, or intangible, including social networks, civic skills, and psychological engagement. This theory is particularly pertinent to this study, which seeks to investigate the impact of education and gender on people's political participation in Nigeria, using Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State as a case study. By applying the Resource Theory, this study can gain a deeper understanding of how education, as a critical resource, enables individuals to participate in politics, and how gender differences in access to resources, such as education and social networks, affect political participation. Furthermore, the theory can be used to examine how the intersection of education, gender, and other factors, such as socioeconomic status and ethnicity, influences political participation. The Resource Theory can also inform policy decisions aimed at increasing political participation among marginalized groups, such as women and those with lower levels of education, by identifying the specific resources that need to be targeted to promote more inclusive and participatory democratic governance. Ultimately, the Resource Theory provides a valuable framework for analyzing the complex relationships between education, gender, and political participation, and its application in this study can yield important insights into how to promote greater civic engagement and democratic participation in Nigeria. 2.4 Empirical Review Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between education, gender, and political participation. Here, we review some empirical findings that are relevant to our study. Women's Political Participation in Nigeria A 2021 working paper explored variations in women's political participation across Southern and Northern Nigeria, using data from Nigeria's 2015 and 2019 General Elections and Afrobarometer's 2018 Nigeria Round 7 survey. The study highlighted persistent gender gaps in political participation. Another study examined the extent of Nigerian women's contribution to political participation and the factors hindering their full participation. Challenges Facing Women in Politics Research shed light on the structural dynamics of Nigeria's political parties, the legal framework, and the pervasive influence of cultural and religious biases as major roadblocks for women in politics. A study analyzed the intricate relationship between gendered misinformation and its detrimental impact on women in politics. Recent Developments and Trends Recent developments in women's political participation in Nigeria portend a change in the nation's political landscape, offering hope for deeper democracy through gender equity and equality. A study provided an empirical analysis of women's participation in Nigerian politics, highlighting the effects on Nigeria's development ¹ Recent studies have shed light on the complexities of women's political participation in Nigeria. A 2021 working paper, for instance, explored variations in women's political participation across Southern and Northern Nigeria, utilizing data from Nigeria's 2015 and 2019 General Elections and Afrobarometer's 2018 Nigeria Round 7 survey, and highlighted persistent gender gaps in political participation. Further research has examined the extent of Nigerian women's contribution to political participation, identifying factors that hinder their full participation. The challenges facing women in politics are multifaceted, with studies revealing the structural dynamics of Nigeria's political parties, the legal framework, and the pervasive influence of cultural and religious biases as major roadblocks. Additionally, research has analyzed the intricate relationship between gendered misinformation and its detrimental impact on 40 11.4% Disagree 60 17.1% Undecided 25 7.1% Agree 110 31.4% Strongly Agree 115 32.9% Total 350 100% Table 4.2 reveals the respondents' opinions on the impact of gender on political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area. The majority of respondents, 115 (32.9%), strongly agreed that gender affects political participation, while 110 (31.4%) agreed. However, 60 respondents (17.1%) disagreed, and 40 respondents (11.4%) strongly disagreed, indicating skepticism about the impact of gender. Meanwhile, 25 respondents (7.1%) remained undecided. The findings suggest that most respondents perceive gender as a factor that affects political participation among women in Gombe Local Government Area. The results indicate that gender stereotypes, biases, or other gender-related factors may influence women's ability to participate in politics. These findings have implications for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to promote gender equality and enhance women's political participation in the region. Table 4.3: Respondents' Opinion on the Existence of Barriers to Women's Political Participation Response Frequency Percentage Strongly Disagree 15 4.3% Disagree 20 5.7% Undecided 10 2.9% Agree 120 34.3% Strongly Agree 185 52.9% Total 350 100% Table 4.3 reveals the respondents' opinions on the existence of barriers to women's political participation in Gombe Local Government Area. The majority of respondents, 185 (52.9%), strongly agreed that there are barriers to women's political participation, while 120 (34.3%) agreed. However, 20 respondents (5.7%) disagreed, and 15 respondents (4.3%) strongly disagreed, indicating that some respondents do not perceive significant barriers. Meanwhile, 10 respondents (2.9%) remained undecided. The findings suggest that most respondents acknowledge the existence of barriers to women's political participation in Gombe Local Government Area. These barriers may include cultural, social, economic, or institutional factors that hinder women's ability to participate in politics. The results highlight the need for policymakers and stakeholders to identify and address these barriers to promote women's political participation and enhance gender equality in the region. Table 4.4: Respondents' Opinion on the Influence of Education on Women's Political Efficacy Response Frequency Percentage Strongly Disagree 20 5.7% Disagree 30 8.6% Undecided 15 4.3% Agree 140 40% Strongly Agree 145 41.4% Total 350 100% Table 4.4 reveals the respondents' opinions on the influence of education on women's political efficacy in Gombe Local Government Area. The majority of respondents, 145 (41.4%), strongly agreed that education influences women's political efficacy, while 140 (40%) agreed. However, 30 respondents (8.6%) disagreed, and 20 respondents (5.7%) strongly disagreed, indicating skepticism about the impact of education. Meanwhile, 15 respondents (4.3%) remained undecided. The findings suggest that most respondents perceive education as a significant factor that influences women's political efficacy in Gombe Local Government Area. Education can empower women with knowledge, skills, and confidence, enabling them to participate more effectively in politics. The results highlight the importance of promoting education as a means of enhancing women's political participation and efficacy in the region. Table 4.5: Respondents' Suggestions for Promoting Women's Political Participation and Empowerment Strategy Frequency Percentage Education and Training 200 57.1% Mentorship and Networking 80 22.9% Advocacy and Awareness 120 34.3% Policy and Legislative Support 150 42.9% Community Engagement 100 28.6% Other ( specify) 50 14.3% Table 4.5 reveals the respondents' suggestions for promoting women's political participation and empowerment in Gombe Local Government Area. The most popular strategy suggested was education and training, with 200 respondents (57.1%) supporting this approach. Other strategies suggested include policy and legislative support (42.9%), advocacy and awareness (34.3%), community engagement (28.6%), and mentorship and networking (22.9%). The findings suggest that respondents believe a multi-faceted approach is needed to promote women's political participation and empowerment in Gombe Local Government Area. Education and training can equip women with the necessary skills and knowledge, while policy and legislative support can provide a framework for promoting women's participation. Advocacy and awareness can help to change societal attitudes and promote a culture of inclusivity. Community engagement and mentorship and networking can provide women with support and role models. The results highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the various barriers to women's political participation and empowerment in Gombe Local Government Area. By implementing these strategies, policymakers and stakeholders can promote women's participation and empowerment, leading to more inclusive and representative governance CHAPTER FIVE SUMMARY,CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Summary