Investigating the Role of Traditional Institutions in Shaping Gender Equality Outcomes in Northern Nigeria

Traditional institutions including emirate councils, district heads, and ward councils remain powerful governance actors in Northern Nigeria, with significant influence over gender norms, women's rights enforcement, and local policy implementation. This study investigates the role of traditional institutions in shaping gender equality outcomes across the North West and North East geopolitical zones, drawing on evidence from Kano, Sokoto, and Borno States. A comparative qualitative design was employed, with 60 in-depth interviews conducted with traditional rulers and their representatives, women's group leaders, government gender officers, and civil society advocates. Comparative case analysis and thematic analysis guided interpretation. Findings reveal significant variation in the gender governance stance of traditional institutions both within and across states. Some traditional rulers actively support girls' education and condemn harmful practices, while others enforce patriarchal norms through delegitimisation of women's participation in public life. The study identifies progressive Islamic scholarship, exposure to educated female family members, and pressure from state government as the key drivers of traditional institution gender norm evolution. Traditional institutions that engage with women's groups directly demonstrate more responsive gender governance. Recommendations include structured dialogue frameworks between government gender bureaus and traditional institutions, and recognition and resourcing of women's advisory councils within emirate and district structures. Keywords: traditional institutions, gender equality, Northern Nigeria, emirate, governance