A disturbing trend is unfolding, threatening the very foundation of our social fabric. It is subtle yet destructive, quietly eating away at the bonds of community and hindering individual progress, until our collective well-being begins to crumble. Over time, this issue has taken various forms: the “crab mentality,” a penchant for pulling others down, deep-rooted stereotypes, and systemic biases rooted in gender and ethnicity. Regardless of what we call it, the fact remains that if we don’t address and dismantle these deeply embedded patterns, we risk perpetuating a cycle of inequality that will weigh heavily on future generations.
Take, for instance, Funke Akindele, a renowned actress and filmmaker whose achievements have earned her widespread recognition. With her iconic portrayal of “Jenifa” and other compelling roles, she has captivated millions while sparking important discussions about societal issues. Her career spans decades of creative ingenuity, often serving as a springboard for dialogue on social, economic, and political reforms. Yet, when she announced her intent to run for Deputy Governor of Lagos State, she became the target of unfounded hostility and criticism.
Akindele’s experience is not an isolated case. Historically, women around the world who have stepped into roles traditionally reserved for men have faced similar resistance. In Nigeria, where cultural and structural barriers to female leadership remain formidable, the criticism leveled against Akindele starkly illustrates the gender-specific challenges that women in public life endure. Despite her clear track record of leadership, critics have focused on her gender rather than her abilities, turning her achievements into a point of contention and portraying her ambition as a provocation.
What makes Akindele’s case particularly poignant is not only the pushback she faces but the broader message it sends to young girls and women across Nigeria. Her political aspirations shine as a beacon of possibility, signaling that it is indeed possible to break through societal barriers and drive change from positions of power. However, the resistance she encounters sends a discouraging counter-message: that a woman’s aspirations, no matter how legitimate or transformative, will be met with hostility and disdain. This cycle perpetuates a culture that undermines gender equality, stifles progress, and hinders the development Nigeria so urgently needs.
It is essential to consider why this resistance persists. A significant portion of it stems from deeply entrenched cultural norms that have long relegated women to secondary roles. Over time, these norms have become so ingrained that even the most accomplished women find their ambitions questioned simply because they are women. Another key factor is the lack of female representation in leadership positions. When few women hold decision-making roles, society struggles to view them as legitimate leaders. This lack of representation creates a cycle of exclusion, perpetuating inequality and limiting the nation’s full potential.
International examples emphasize the importance of gender inclusivity in governance. Studies have consistently shown that when women actively participate in leadership, policies tend to be more inclusive, fair, and responsive to the diverse needs of society. In Rwanda, where women constitute a large percentage of parliamentarians, legislative decisions have prioritized healthcare, education, and social equity. Similarly, in Nordic countries that approach gender parity in politics, governments have adopted family-friendly policies, invested in education, and achieved some of the highest living standards in the world. Nigeria could greatly benefit from applying these lessons and promoting women’s leadership at every level of government.
In this light, Funke Akindele’s candidacy should not be seen as a threat but as a chance for progress. Her journey, from acclaimed entertainer to prospective deputy governor, reflects a broader push toward more inclusive governance. She embodies the principle that leadership should mirror society’s diversity, tapping into the full range of talent, perspectives, and experiences. Rather than tearing her down, her critics should recognize that inclusive governance, enriched by women’s voices and viewpoints, ultimately strengthens society as a whole.
As Nigeria strives for sustainable development, it must confront the barriers that prevent women from fully participating in governance. Doing so requires systemic changes: revising discriminatory laws, fostering inclusive political parties, providing leadership training for women, and creating pathways that support women’s aspirations from a young age. It also demands a cultural shift, one that celebrates ambition rather than punishing it, and that views diversity in leadership as a strength rather than a threat.
Ultimately, Funke Akindele’s experience is not just her own; it is a microcosm of the struggles faced by countless Nigerian women who dare to dream beyond societal expectations. Her story underscores the urgent need to confront entrenched biases, question the narratives that hold women back, and foster a society where every individual, regardless of gender, can pursue their aspirations without fear or undue criticism. By doing so, Nigeria can pave the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future.
To address these stark inequalities and to prevent a regression into entrenched gender disparities, Nigeria must undertake deliberate and systemic changes that ensure women have equal opportunities to contribute meaningfully to national growth and governance. Gender equity in leadership is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic advantage. Research and data consistently show that when women participate actively in governance and decision-making, the resulting policies tend to be more inclusive, outcomes more representative, and the overall society more equitable.
One step is to implement institutional reforms that enforce gender quotas, compelling political parties to field a designated percentage of female candidates at all levels of government. However, these quotas must go beyond symbolic gestures, aiming instead to normalise women’s representation in leadership positions and ensure that the candidates are not merely placeholders, but well-prepared and supported to perform their roles effectively. This would require political will, ongoing oversight, and a commitment to fostering a genuinely level playing field for women in politics.
Beyond political representation, there must be sustained investment in leadership development and capacity-building initiatives targeted at young girls and women. This includes integrating leadership training into educational curriculums, establishing mentorship networks that connect aspiring female leaders with seasoned professionals, and creating spaces where women can gain hands-on experience in governance, public administration, and policy-making. The goal is to build a strong pipeline of women leaders who are confident, capable, and equipped with the necessary skills to assume key decision-making roles at all levels of society.
Cultural norms and social attitudes that stifle female ambition must also be challenged directly. Traditional and religious leaders, often the custodians of societal values, should be engaged as allies in promoting positive narratives about women’s leadership potential. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the achievements of women in politics, business, and civil society can shift perceptions, inspire future generations, and gradually dismantle the entrenched biases that discourage women from pursuing leadership roles.
Accountability mechanisms are equally important. Clear, transparent processes for monitoring progress in women’s representation and participation should be established. This includes tracking the number of women in key leadership positions, evaluating the impact of gender-inclusive policies, and regularly reporting on the barriers that persist. Such data-driven approaches ensure that setbacks are identified early and that corrective actions can be taken swiftly to maintain forward momentum.
The role of civil society organisations and the media is also important. Civil society can serve as both watchdog and advocate, holding governments and institutions accountable for their commitments to gender equity. Meanwhile, the media has the power to shape public opinion, celebrate women’s achievements, and challenge stereotypes. Together, these sectors can help build a more supportive environment where women’s leadership is not just accepted but embraced as a norm.
The benefits of a gender-equitable society extend far beyond individual empowerment. They include stronger democratic institutions, more resilient economies, and a healthier, more balanced social fabric. By creating pathways for women to lead, investing in their development, and fostering an environment that values their contributions, Nigeria stands to unlock immense potential. Through these efforts, the country can chart a course toward a more inclusive and prosperous future one where every citizen, regardless of gender, can participate fully and contribute meaningfully to national progress.
If the measure of a society’s progress lies in how it nurtures and empowers its members to reach their full potential, it is clear that Nigeria must confront the deep-seated biases and counterproductive narratives that restrict women’s aspirations. Gender should not serve as a barrier to ambition; rather, it should be regarded as a dimension of diversity that enriches decision-making and leadership. Judging a woman’s competence or potential based on superficial factors, such as her attire or initial career path, fails to appreciate the complexity and depth of individual achievement.
Historically, there have been numerous instances where individuals from nontraditional or unconventional backgrounds transitioned into public service and excelled. Entertainers, entrepreneurs, and innovators have consistently demonstrated that skills honed in one domain can be effectively applied to governance and leadership. Their creativity, ability to navigate complex industries, and experience in managing large teams and budgets often translate into visionary policy making and an empathetic approach to public service. To dismiss someone’s aspirations solely on the basis of their initial career path is not only shortsighted but also deeply unjust.
Funke Akindele’s case highlights a broader pattern of resistance that many women face when stepping into public leadership roles. This resistance often stems not from a lack of qualification, but from entrenched social attitudes that undervalue women’s contributions and overemphasize their personal challenges or perceived “flaws.” It is a reflection of a societal mindset that struggles to reconcile traditional gender norms with modern realities of gender equality and inclusion. Overcoming this mindset requires a concerted effort to educate the public, challenge stereotypes, and create an environment where women’s aspirations are met with support rather than suspicion.
Moreover, the focus on personal struggles or perceived imperfections serves as a distraction from the pressing issues that a capable leader is poised to address. Leadership should be about integrity, vision, and the ability to deliver results for the collective good. When the discourse surrounding a candidate devolves into irrelevant criticisms and personal attacks, it undermines the democratic process and diminishes the quality of governance. A society that aspires to progress must learn to focus on what matters, policies, ideas, and the ability to foster inclusive growth, rather than perpetuating baseless judgments rooted in bias.
In light of these dynamics, it is imperative that Nigeria take a stand against the subtle and overt forces that seek to silence female voices and hinder their potential. Creating pathways for women to lead is not a gesture of charity; it is a strategic necessity. Women bring unique perspectives to the table, enriching debates, introducing innovative solutions, and ensuring that policies address the needs of all citizens. By normalizing women’s participation in leadership and supporting their ambitions, Nigeria will be better positioned to tackle its challenges, harness its full human capital, and chart a more equitable and prosperous future.
This is not merely about supporting one individual’s political aspirations. It is about setting a precedent, breaking barriers, and affirming that talent and dedication not gender should determine one’s ability to contribute to society. In doing so, Nigeria can demonstrate that it values fairness, celebrates diversity, and embraces the transformative potential of inclusive leadership.
