The United Nations (UN), yesterday, said that Nigeria ranks 130 out of 166 countries in its latest Global Gender Gap Index. The UN also said that as the world accelerates towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) deadline, Nigeria confronts significant hurdles, particularly in addressing gender inequality and empowering women and girls.
 
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, disclosed this in Abuja, at the stakeholder’s dialogue with the theme, ‘Closing the Gender Gap: Financing Solutions for SDG 5.’
  
He said that Nigeria is off-track on nearly 60 per cent of SDG indicators, with gender disparities posing a substantial barrier to progress, adding: “Women and girls face disproportionate poverty, limited education and healthcare access, as well as significant economic and decision-making barriers.”
  
He emphasised that gender equality is critical for advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Fall said: “The status of women and girls in Nigeria highlights these challenges. Over 70 per cent of women in rural areas lack access to basic education and healthcare. Nigeria ranks 130 out of 166 countries in the Global Gender Gap Index, indicating severe disparities in economic participation, education, health, and political empowerment.”

“Gender-based violence remains pervasive, affecting nearly one in three women. Women also represent less than five per cent of Nigeria’s national parliament, reflecting significant underrepresentation in decision-making processes.”