The idea of the project is to interrogate the perception that women do not support women in Nigeria. Our research focused on women working in politics, media, civil society, and academia. The research revealed interesting reflections of women on subjects like internalised biases. hypercriticality and the perfection standards, access to funding, and generational perceptions. It is important to note that Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, has made significant strides in various sectors. However, gender inequality remains in leadership, and political participation remains a continuing setback. Despite a rich history of powerful female figures, women are grossly underrepresented in both public and private sector leadership roles. This underrepresentation is often attributed to systemic barriers such as patriarchal norms, political and financial hurdles, and deep-seated societal biases. While these external factors are widely acknowledged, the subtle, psychological, and internal dynamics among women themselves, which can either accelerate or hinder progress, are often overlooked. Despite extensive research on the underrepresentation of Nigerian women in leadership due to structural and cultural barriers, a less-examined aspect is the role women themselves play in this dynamic. This project, titled ‘The Role of Women in Women’s Leadership Advancement in Nigeria: Realities and Reflections’, seeks to critically analyse the notion that women’s own actions or inactions may inhibit their progress and the progress of their peers. Findings from recent projects supported by HBS, Nigeria, in Abia and Oyo States have brought this issue into focus. The studies revealed that some women who attain leadership positions have become gatekeepers, failed to mentor others, or engaged in internal conflicts that weaken the collective female voice. Inadvertently, reinforces patriarchal norms. This situation, often stemming from long-term marginalisation and the ‘one seat at the table’ precept, can manifest as either timidity or hostility towards fellow women. This project seeks to challenge these perceptions and to build a more collaborative path forward.
The conference provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the ‘Realities, provide a platform for ‘Reflections’, and propose Solutions
-it also allowed participants to investigate how stereotypes and hidden biases contribute to the glass ceiling hindering women’s upward mobility.
•The conference presented the perceptions and experiences of both emerging and established female leaders.
Participants fostered mentorship matches, built comradeship, and possible networks.
Participants developed locally relevant and culturally appropriate strategies to address the identified barriers.
