Understanding Political Exclusion in Nigeria Through Cultural and Policy Perspectives

This study examines the relationship between cultural norms, policy frameworks, and political inclusion in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on women's participation in governance. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality under the 1999 Constitution and the adoption of the National Gender Policy (2006), significant disparities persist in women's access to political leadership and decision-making positions. The paper argues that while national and international legal instruments promote political equality and non-discrimination, deeply rooted cultural practices, patriarchal structures, and institutional barriers continue to undermine their effective implementation. It further highlights the persistent exclusion of women from governance, political representation, and access to key national resources despite sustained advocacy since the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1999. The study concludes that achieving inclusive governance in Nigeria requires stronger enforcement of existing policy frameworks, institutional reforms, and deliberate efforts to dismantle socio-cultural barriers that limit women's political participation