Understanding Gender Norms and the influence on Women’s Leadership in the Southeast Geopolitical Zone – A Focus Group Discussion

HEIR WOMEN HUB

The Focus Group Discussion held on March 26 brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to examine understanding gender norms and their influence on women’s leadership in the Southeast geopolitical zone. The session recorded an impressive turnout and provided a structured platform for open, honest, and reflective dialogue.

Participants actively shared lived experiences and professional perspectives, highlighting the deeply entrenched gender norms that continue to shape leadership dynamics across the region. A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the persistent perception that leadership is inherently male-dominated, with many contributors noting that women are often sidelined or perceived as less capable of holding top leadership positions.

It was widely expressed that even in spaces where women are present in leadership structures, they are frequently positioned in subordinate roles, reinforcing existing hierarchies where men occupy primary leadership positions while women remain in supporting capacities. This structural imbalance was identified as a significant barrier to women’s advancement and meaningful participation in decision-making processes.

The discussion further explored the intersection between these gender norms and gender-based violence (NGBV), emphasizing how societal expectations and power imbalances contribute not only to limited leadership opportunities for women but also to broader patterns of inequality and vulnerability.

Participants also identified key challenges, including cultural expectations, limited access to opportunities, lack of institutional support, and societal bias, all of which continue to hinder women’s leadership progression. At the same time, the session generated practical insights and recommendations focused on promoting inclusive leadership, challenging harmful norms, and strengthening systems that support women’s active participation in leadership.

Overall, the Focus Group Discussion provided critical insights into the systemic barriers affecting women’s leadership in the Southeast and underscored the urgent need for intentional, sustained efforts to address these challenges.

The outcomes of this engagement will inform ongoing interventions and strategies aimed at fostering inclusive leadership and addressing the underlying factors that perpetuate gender-based violence.

HEIR WOMEN HUB

This timely discussion continues as the Constitutional Review considers amending the law to create additional seats for women in parliament. The SouthEast has a critical role to play in ensuring more woman are positioned in seats of leadership.

This project is with support from the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF).

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