World Bank: Only 10.5% of Nigerian Women Have Jobs

The World Bank's latest gender data report reveals that only 10.5% of women in Nigeria have salary-paying jobs, indicating a heavily skewed labor market against women. Despite a high participation rate of 80.7% among Nigerian women aged 15 and above, they are concentrated in low-quality jobs with little income security.

The employment rate for men stands at 17.0%, highlighting a significant gender gap. The report notes that structural barriers, such as skill gaps and limited access to capital, restrict women's access to formal employment.

Vulnerable employment affects 79.1% of female workers compared to 54.8% of men, with many women engaged in self-employment or unpaid family work. The agricultural sector employs 23.6% of women, compared to 42.7% of men, often characterized by low productivity.

The report also highlights that 13.4% of young women are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), indicating a significant number remain outside productive engagement. The report emphasizes the need for reforms to improve gender equality and economic participation.