A Qualitative Evaluation of Women as Managers in the Nigerian Civil Service

Abstract

Discusses the role of women in management in the Nigerian Civil Service (NCS). The number of men in management in the NCS far exceeds the number of women. Women also function in a Nigerian society permeated by gender stereotypes. Tries to answer the question: “Why is a woman less likely to become a senior manager in the NCS?” Data were gathered from a selection of male and female managers who have the required experience and knowledge of women issues. The findings show that the debate about women's roles as managers has prompted a reassessment of the traditional negative stereotype of women as managers. Although women are being given some managerial opportunities, they are severely discriminated against. Thus the range of opportunities available to women is limited and the prospect of a woman being a senior manager is less favourable than for a man. Concludes that women are likely to bring a distinct style of management to the service and the NCS would benefit from more integration of women managers.