Gendered dimension of climate change: are women disparate in Nigeria?

Purpose This study investigated the gendered dimensions of climate change in conflict-affected Borno State, Nigeria, focusing on participants’ knowledge of climate change, gender-specific vulnerabilities and coping strategies. By examining how women experience and adapt to climate-induced challenges, this study aims to inform gender-sensitive interventions that address structural inequalities and promote sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach The study is grounded in a feminist epistemology framework and employs Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to examine participants lived experiences of climate change through a gendered lens. Feminist epistemology guides the research by prioritizing women’s voices and interrogating structural inequalities, while IPA provides the methodological rigor to capture meaning-making processes. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 35 participants. Findings The study revealed that women face heightened vulnerabilities to climate change due to caregiving responsibilities, limited access to land, financial resources and exclusion from decision-making processes. These challenges are compounded by conflict and displacement, which exacerbate livelihood disruptions. Despite this, women demonstrate resilience through adaptive strategies that sustain their households. Practical implications The findings emphasize the need for gender-sensitive policies that address systemic inequalities, improve women’s access to education and enhance financial and land ownership opportunities. Targeted support for women’s adaptive strategies is crucial for building community resilience to climate change. Originality/value This study offers a unique exploration of the intersection of gender, climate change and conflict in Borno State, Nigeria. It underscores the importance of integrating gender-sensitive approaches into climate adaptation strategies, contributing to the global discourse on equity, resilience and sustainable development.