Evaluation of the CEDAW Implementation Record in Nigeria: Implications for Gender Policy

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) provides a comprehensive international framework for gender equality, yet Nigeria's record of domestic implementation falls short of its treaty obligations. This study evaluates Nigeria's CEDAW implementation record with reference to periodic state reports, shadow reports, and domestic legislation between 2019 and 2024. A qualitative documentary analysis design was employed, supplemented by interviews with 40 gender lawyers, civil society advocates, and government officials. Thematic analysis was applied to data generated from primary and secondary sources. Findings reveal persistent gaps in implementation across multiple CEDAW articles, particularly in areas of discriminatory personal laws, political representation, rural women's rights, and reproductive health services. The Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, while a significant legislative achievement, has not been domesticated in all 36 states. Gender-disaggregated data collection remains inadequate across government ministries and agencies. The study finds that civil society organisations play the dominant role in CEDAW advocacy, largely compensating for institutional inertia. Recommendations include accelerated state-level adoption of gender equality legislation, strengthening of the National Gender Policy Implementation Framework, and establishment of a parliamentary gender equality oversight committee. This research provides an evidence-based assessment relevant to gender practitioners across all geopolitical zones. Keywords: CEDAW, gender policy, Nigeria, implementation, international law