INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, INCOME INEQUALITYAND GENDER INEQUALITY IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT Information communication technology is fast encroaching financial systems all over the world, attracting myriads of research interests. This study investigated the relationship between ICT, income inequality and gender inequality in Nigeria, with a view to analysing trends and patterns, examining the effect of ICT on gender inequality, ICT and gender inequality on income inequality. Mixed method was employed. Data were extracted from time series from 1980 to 2024 from World development indictor (WDI) and standardized world income inequality database (SWIID). Digital divide theory, conduced to a conceptual diagram served as the frameworks Data was subjected to Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Error-correction Model (ECM) to estimate both long run and short run relationships among variables.ICT was proxied by individuals using the internet (IUTI) and Fixed telephone subscription (FTS), income inequality was measured using gini-coefficient (ICQ) and Gender inequality was measured using female primary school enrolment (FPSE) and male primary school enrolment (MPSE). ICT expansion significantly improved female enrolment but reduced male enrolment in the long run, suggesting that males were increasingly disadvantaged in digital access and outcomes. Additionally, Internet usage contributed to rising income inequality, while female enrolment appeared to reduce it. Fixed telephone access had an equalizing effect on income distribution. Short-run relationships were mostly statistically insignificant, indicating time-lagged effects and structural barriers. The findings underscored a role reversal in educational gender inequality, highlighting emerging vulnerability of male students in the digital era. There is need for equity-driven ICT policies, digital literacy reform, and targeted male educational support to address gendered ICT-access inequality in Nigeria. Keywords: ICT, income inequality, gender inequality, Auto-regressive distributed lag Word count: 258