Why does Female Underrepresentation Persist in Nigerian Architecture?

Abstract

This study aims at examining lingering issues concerning gender in the architectural profession, particularly on underrepresentation and visibility of women in various hierarchies of architectural practice. The findings from a pioneering field study of gender in Nigerian architecture were juxtaposed with literature analysis and summarised reviews of several leading published studies on gender in the profession to provide a quantitative and qualitative assessment of the stumbling blocks for women and the impact of diversity on the outlook of the profession at large. The study identified a trifecta relationship of age, the nature of work done and job satisfaction as impediments to the participation of women which require holistic, all-inclusive, workable solutions for the creation of professional environments made up of diverse perspectives and ideologies. The study recommends: 1) women speak up for what they need from the profession and find active ways to satisfy themselves; 2) equity, equality and diversity in decisions that affect professional growth; 3) willingness to balance families and free time in order to develop professional and personal relationships; and 4) formation of schemes and policies to foster inclusion based on the finding from this and other similar studies.