The Changing Roles: An Examination on the Social Status and Roles of Ebira Women of Kogi State
- Sanni Lois Avosuahi
- Prince AbubakarAudu University, AnyigbaKogi State, Nigeria
Traditionally, Ebira
women played significant roles in their society, but their social status and
roles have undergone changes over time. These changes have brought a shift from
primarily domestic, agricultural and relegating roles to increased participation
in education, entrepreneurship, and politics among others. This study explores
the evolving social status and roles of Ebira women from traditional to
contemporary times. Using a mixed-methods approach, combining historical
research and interviews the study sheds light on the factors that have shaped
the roles of women and how these roles have evolved over time. The changing
roles of Ebira women reflect the relationship between tradition, modernization,
and gender dynamics.
Despite the progress, Ebira women still face challenges like patriarchal norms, limited access to resources, and cultural preservation and gender role perceptions. Given these, the study examines and recommends that empowerment programmes and policy reforms can be put in place to help these women realise their full potentials.