Gender and Information Access Inequality in Rural Communities in Kebbi State

This study examined gender-based inequalities in information access within rural communities in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. Access to information is a recognised enabler of socioeconomic development, and gender disparities in such access can perpetuate cycles of disadvantage for women and girls in rural settings. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining household survey data from 350 respondents in four local government areas with qualitative interviews conducted with community leaders, women's group facilitators, and local government information officers. Findings showed that women had significantly lower rates of access to mobile internet, radio, and community information boards compared to men, driven by economic constraints, cultural restrictions on independent mobility, and lower functional literacy rates. The study also found that information provision in these communities was not gender-sensitive in content or delivery mode. The study recommended that government information agencies design gender-responsive information dissemination strategies, expand women's access to community radio, and partner with women's organisations for targeted outreach. Keywords: gender, information access, rural communities, Kebbi State, information inequality.