Gender Equality: A Core Legal Recipe for Sustainable Development in Igboland of Nigeria

Abstract

The quest for gender equality has occupied a prominent position in global agenda in recent decades, with colossal implications on States, Organizations, Communities and individuals.  Attainment of gender equality will ensure that men and women enjoy equally, the inalienable rights such as right to life, respect for the dignity of the human person among others, and that men and women, are accorded equal opportunities for socio-economic, political and cultural growth and participation.  The world is craving for sustainable development – a development that meets the needs of the present without jeopardizing the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.    This can hardly be realized if half the population is disempowered.  This paper will appraise the achievement of gender equality in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on its operation in Igboland.  The paper will also create a nexus between gender equality and sustainable development, ultimately to X-ray the pivotal role gender equality plays in the achievement of sustainable development, and proffer recommendations for its attainment in Igboland.

Keywords: gender equality, sustainable development, legal recipe, Igboland