Evaluation of Gender Mainstreaming Practices in Federal Ministries in Abuja

Gender mainstreaming is a globally endorsed strategy for embedding gender equality considerations into the policies, programmes, and procedures of public institutions. This study evaluates the extent and quality of gender mainstreaming practices in selected federal ministries in Abuja, focusing on the Ministries of Education, Agriculture, and Finance. A descriptive survey design was used, with structured questionnaires administered to 180 civil servants across the three ministries, supplemented by document review of gender policy frameworks. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Findings reveal that while all three ministries have formal gender policy documents, implementation is limited, inconsistent, and largely performative. Gender-disaggregated data collection is practiced in fewer than 30% of programme monitoring activities. Female staff occupy fewer than 25% of directorate and above positions in the sample. The study finds that gender focal points exist in all ministries but are inadequately resourced, lack decision-making authority, and receive minimal technical support. Recommendations include mandatory gender-responsive budgeting across all federal ministries, investment in gender focal point capacity development, and accountability mechanisms linking ministry performance assessments to gender mainstreaming indicators. This research provides an evidence base for federal gender policy reform in Nigeria's North Central administrative hub. Keywords: gender mainstreaming, federal ministries, Abuja, gender policy, public administration