Investigating Gender Dimensions of Internal Migration and Urban Poverty in Lagos

Internal migration to Lagos is significantly gendered, with women migrating for distinct reasons, through different channels, and facing different urban integration challenges than male migrants. This study investigates the gender dimensions of internal migration and its relationship with urban poverty outcomes for migrants in Lagos. A longitudinal survey design was employed, tracking a cohort of 280 recent migrants (140 female, 140 male) over an 18-month period in Mushin, Alimosho, and Surulere Local Government Areas. Descriptive statistics, fixed-effects regression, and gender-stratified analysis were applied. Findings reveal that female migrants are significantly more likely than males to have migrated for family-related reasons (marriage, accompanying partners, care duties) rather than employment, resulting in lower labour market preparedness and higher rates of economically inactive status on arrival. Female migrants' urban income growth lags male migrants significantly at the 12-month mark. Social isolation and restricted social network access reduce female migrants' economic information and job search capacity. However, female migrants who access women's economic cooperative networks within six months demonstrate income growth rates comparable to male migrants. This study fills a significant gap in gender and migration research for the Lagos megacity context. Recommendations address gender-sensitive migration support services and migrant women's cooperative development. Keywords: gender, internal migration, urban poverty, Lagos, female migrants