ROLE OF WOMEN IN SOCIO-POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA 2019 - 2023 (CASE STUDY, BAUCHI STATE)

ABSTRACT This study investigates the critical role women are being played in Nigeria's socio-political and economic development, using Bauchi State as a case study from 2019 to 2023. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis. Women's participation in politics, entrepreneurship and education and have been explored. Our findings reveal that women have made significant strides in Bauchi State, contributing to improve in the area of education, economic growth, and political representation. However, challenges persist, including limited access to credit, and societal norms restricting women's empowerment and political participation. Our research highlights the need for targeted interventions and policies to address these barriers, unlocking women's full potential as drivers of sustainable development in Nigeria. The study also assesses the role of women in politics, identifies their challenges and also explores its implication for socio-economic development in Bauchi state, Nigeria. In addition, explorative methods using existing literature were also employed. Findings from the study indicate that there exists a high illiteracy rate among women and most of them are not aware of existing National or International gender equality laws or affirmative action. Thus, it is difficult to participate in politics and contribute their voices to political issues. The study concludes that the present role played by women at the grassroots level may not be adequate in encouraging more women's participation in politics and in influencing socio-political and economic development. Thus, there is need to step up their activities and embrace political issues to participate and be relevant in politics. The study therefore suggests that more empowerment programs, especially in the area of decision making and participation in politics, should be targeted at women especially in the grassroots level by the governments and all stakeholders as a matter of priority.