By Ayo Onikoyi

As women and gender equality continue to dominate the global discourse, Nife Ogunbodede, a research expert in public policy, governance, and gender inclusion, sheds light on the persistent challenges and advancements women face in various professional settings.

In a recent in-depth conversation with our correspondent, she highlighted her journey, the hurdles she has overcome, and her dedication to uplifting women in academia and beyond.

In her reflections, Nife recounts the challenges she has encountered as a woman navigating academia, from implicit biases to overt gender discrimination. “My academic journey, which began with a National Diploma in Local Government Studies and progressed to my current MS.c in Political Science, has been marked by countless obstacles,” she shared. “Balancing teaching, research, and administrative duties have subjected me to heightened scrutiny compared to my male counterparts.” Despite this, she has consistently excelled, demonstrating resilience and commitment.

As a Lecturer at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Nife has faced the gender biases entrenched in academic institutions. She elaborated, “One major challenge has been earning the same level of respect as my male colleagues. However, through quality teaching, research, and active participation in academic committees, I’ve worked hard to overcome these barriers.”

Her involvement in mentoring over 20 final-year students annually, among other responsibilities, has helped build a supportive academic community where gender equality is emphasized.

Mentorship for Nife Ogunbodede has been pivotal in navigating the academic landscape. “Being both a mentor and mentee has shown me the importance of support networks,” she noted.

She disclosed how she has been instrumental in programs like “Pathway of Excellence for Females in Academia,” which aim to empower women through professional development.

She recalled how her journey and achievements had inspired her to focus her research on gender equality and inclusion, aiming to address systemic gender marginalization.

She explains, “My personal and academic experiences have fueled my commitment to this field. Growing up, I was aware of the gender-based barriers women face, and I felt a deep responsibility to advocate for gender equity.”

Through her research, she seeks to challenge societal expectations and push for policies that dismantle these barriers.

“Teaching courses such as Theories of Administration and Management and Nigerian Government and Politics allows me to weave gender issues into the discourse, helping students understand the importance of inclusive governance,” she shared.

Empowering women to find and use their voices remains central to her advocacy. “Education is the foundation of empowerment,” she explained.

She argued that scholarships, mentorship, and programs like the Tertiary Institution Trust Fund, which supported her MSc, are essential for giving women the tools to excel. Additionally, she advocates for gender-sensitive policies in institutions to level the playing field.

The representation of women in leadership, she noted, is crucial for inspiring future generations. “My roles on the Disciplinary and Welfare Committees at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic underscore the importance of women’s participation in decision-making bodies,” she said. Such involvement, she noted, not only paves the way for others but also demonstrates that women can thrive in leadership.

Speaking further, she revealed how professional organizations and networks have provided her with platforms to share her experiences and strategies for overcoming gender barriers.  “Women can greatly benefit from these networks, gaining access to opportunities and resources,” she observed. She actively raises awareness on gender issues, advocating for policies that create environments where women’s voices are valued and respected.

In her classes, Nife Ogunbodede hopes her students take away lessons on critical thinking, ethical standards, and the importance of diversity. Her teaching philosophy focuses on equipping students with the skills needed to make impactful contributions to governance and public administration.

When advising young women aspiring to academia, Nife Ogunbodede emphasizes lifelong learning, mentorship, and resilience. “Develop a passion for your field, seek mentors, and always strive for excellence,” she advised.

Citing her experience with gender biases, she encourages young women to persevere, adding, “Your hard work and dedication will eventually be recognized.”

Her research on the intersection of gender, politics, and governance has yielded critical insights, particularly her current project, “Making Women Count: An Appraisal of Women-Centered Policies of Nigerian Political Parties.” Nife explained, “The research exposed the discrepancies between gender-focused policies and their actual implementation.” She identified socio-cultural barriers and the limitations of quotas, urging a shift toward more effective strategies.

Her findings, she asserts, underscore the importance of bridging the gap between policy and practice to promote gender inclusivity. “Quotas alone are insufficient. There needs to be a genuine commitment to dismantling socio-cultural barriers that hinder women’s political participation,” she argued.

Reflecting on the future of gender equality and inclusion in academia and beyond, Nife Ogunbodede emphasized the importance of allyship and collective effort. “Achieving gender equality is not the responsibility of women alone. It requires collaboration with men and institutional leaders who are committed to creating equitable spaces,” she remarked.

She noted that she believes male allies can play a pivotal role in dismantling biases by advocating for policies that promote inclusion in all spheres and actively supporting female colleagues and students in their professional journeys.

Nifee highlighted the significance of continuous progress and accountability. “Policies and frameworks are crucial, but it is essential to consistently evaluate their impact,” she noted.

She called for regular assessments and feedback mechanisms to ensure that institutions are on track toward gender inclusivity. By fostering environments that are supportive, inclusive, and progressive, she envisions a future where academia and other professional spaces truly reflect the diversity and talents of all, regardless of gender.