A new multi-institutional research initiative has been launched in Nigeria to tackle the structural challenges limiting the career advancement of women in legal academia.
The project, led by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre in partnership with major legal bodies, brings together 12 faculties of law across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, alongside the Nigerian Law School and the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS). The initiative was formally introduced during an inception meeting held at the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NIALS, Abdulkadir Abikan, said the project responds to long-standing systemic barriers that hinder female law lecturers, particularly the lack of institutional support for balancing academic careers with responsibilities such as marriage, childbirth, and childcare.
He explained that although female academics follow the same promotion processes as their male counterparts, many face additional challenges that are not adequately reflected in current policies. He called for reforms such as workload adjustments during critical life periods and more inclusive performance evaluation systems.
Abikan also confirmed that NIALS would provide research backing to ensure the project produces evidence-based recommendations for reform.
The Dean of the University of Lagos Faculty of Law, Abiola Sanni (SAN), described the initiative as a structured effort to reshape career progression in legal education. He noted that it seeks to identify why equally qualified female academics often advance more slowly than their male counterparts.
He also highlighted proposed solutions such as establishing childcare facilities and improving housing support for young female lecturers.
Similarly, the President of the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers, John Akinsanya, expressed support for the initiative, stressing that while childbirth is a natural and important part of society, it should not become a barrier to academic advancement.
He pointed out disparities in gender representation across Nigerian universities and called for tailored interventions such as mentorship programmes and childcare support systems.
Stakeholders at the meeting agreed that the project aims not only to raise awareness but also to produce practical reforms that will improve gender inclusion and career progression for women in legal education across Nigeria.
