Firdaous Initiative for Academic Excellence: Leading Change in Africa

In many African communities, people often say, “If you educate a woman, you educate a nation.” Across the continent, from rural villages to growing cities, women and men work side by side in markets, farms, schools, and homes. Yet society does not always offer them equal opportunities. Although Africa celebrates rich culture, resilience, and strong community bonds, it continues to wrestle with questions of fairness between genders. This reality makes gender equality a critical issue.

1. Introduction: The Crisis of Representation and the Imperative for Reform The Federal Republic of Nigeria, despite being the most populous nation in Africa and a putative giant of democracy on the continent, faces a profound crisis of legitimacy and inclusivity. The systemic exclusion of women from the corridors of legislative power has calcified into a structural deficit that undermines the very ethos of representative democracy. As the 10th National Assembly undertakes the constitution review