Ayomide Habeeb
Land ownership is a significant factor in determining wealth and status in many African communities.
However, women face challenges inowning land due to cultural and traditional practices that favor men.
Mrs. Murna Ayuba and Mary Emmanuel share their experiences of being denied land ownership, leading to economic vulnerability and psychological distress.
Gender disparity in land ownership is prevalent in Nigeria, with only 10% of land owners being women.
The Nigerian Constitution guarantees the right to acquire and own immovable property, but cultural and socio cultural factors limit women’s ability to own land.
Legal practitioners like Mr. Bunmi Aimola emphasize that there is no law prohibiting women from owning land or properties based on gender.
He suggests land administration reforms and government policies to encourage women to acquire landed properties.
Experts attribute the disparity to economic inequality, social and cultural norms, illiteracy, laws, and policies. They advocate for legal reforms, awareness, economic opportunities, and support for women.