The Role of Women in Politics: A Comparative Analysis in Nigeria and India

Name of Author : Prof. Simeon Peter Olusola Gbeleyi, Dr. Shailja Vasudeva

Abstract: This comparative study examines women's political participation in Nigeria and India, identifying structural, cultural, and policy drivers that shape representation. Drawing on legislative records, policy analyses, NGO reports, and peer-reviewed literature from 2013 to 2025, the study explores the impact of quota systems, party dynamics, and socio-cultural barriers on women’s political representation. India’s landmark Women’s Reservation Act (2023) is analyzed alongside Nigeria’s ongoing advocacy for constitutional and party-level reforms. The findings reveal that while India has institutionalized national-level quotas, implementation challenges remain. Nigeria, despite local-level initiatives, continues to struggle with systemic barriers. The study recommends operationalizing quotas with clear timelines, enhancing party-level reforms, ensuring financial and legal support for women candidates, and improving data transparency.

Keywords : Women; Political Representation; Quotas; Nigeria; India

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