Women’s political participation in Nigeria remains notably low despite efforts to promote
gender equality. This study investigated the socio-political barriers affecting women’s
political engagement, focusing on gender discrimination, financial constraints, and
political violence. Data were collected from 400 women in Abuja using a survey research
approach, and correlation analysis was employed to explore the relationships between
these barriers and women’s political participation. The results showed significant positive
correlations between gender discrimination (r = 0.490, p < .05), financial constraints (r =
0.731, p < .05), and political violence (r = 0.909, p < .05) with women’s participation. The
findings highlight the urgent need to address these barriers to foster a more inclusive
political environment. The study recommends strategies such as reducing gender biases,
providing financial support for women candidates, and enforcing laws to protect women
from political violence to enhance political participation and gender equality in Nigeria

Keywords:Women’s political participation, gender discrimination, financial constraints,
political violence, gender equality.