Female Political Participation and Economic Growth in Nigeria

Abstract

This research examined the effects of female political participation and education on economic growth in Nigeria. The research made use of
secondary data for the period 1999–2019 sourced from Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin, NBS Annual Independent national Electoral Commission reports and World Bank database. Employing ADF test, Co integration and Error Correction Mechanism (ECM), the study found out that
female political participation, female school enrolment, gender parity index and economic growth have a long run relationship. Also, the result of the Error Correction mechanism showed that the RGDP parameter is correctly signed with a 114.15% speed of adjustment in the short run to reach
equilibrium level in the long run. The study also found that Female School Enrolment rate has a negative and insignificant effect on Real GDP in Nigeria (P>0.1878), female political participation has a positive insignificant relationship with economic growth (p>0.6296) and finally gender parity
index was found to have a negative relationship with economic growth (p>0.6166). Based on the findings the paper recommended that Female
school enrolment should be promoted by investing in education and empowerment of females, more inclusive participation in politics for women
and efforts should be made to bridge the gap and avoid discrimination against women.