Women and undue exclusion in paid employment in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria: Implications for Social Work practice

Abstract

The study examined the broad issue of women exclusion in paid employment in Nigeria with Ilorin metropolis as a reference point. Despite several progressive actions undertaken by women movements and international bodies including the African Union to address women marginalization in employment opportunities, the males continue to predominate. The study relied on primary data (structured questionnaire with open and closed ended items) collected in three council areas of Ilorin metropolis, Kwara state. Findings of the study revealed that the cultural system of patriarchy and unsubstantiated religious beliefs have become highly embeded in almost every spheres of our lives that women are seen as secondary feathers. The study findings also revealed a significant association between educational level and women exclusion in paid employment (χ2=17.82, df =4, p <0.05 ). Similarly, there was an evidence of significant association between marital status/quality and women exclusion in paid employment in Ilorin metropolis (χ2=17.23, df =4, p <0.05 ) .The study therefore concludes that there should be a comprehensive policy review and strict adherence to issues related to the elimination of women marginalization in employment and other areas of economic activities