The Evolution of Islamic Advocacy for Women’s Education in Nigeria: A Historical Analysis for Sustainability and Policy Development

Abstract

The primary objectives of this study are to trace the historical progression of Islamic advocacy for female education and evaluate its impact on current Nigerian educational policy. This study explores the dynamic evolution of Islamic advocacy for women’s education in Nigeria, tracing its roots from traditional Qur’anic schooling to its integration with modern educational frameworks. In contemporary Nigerian society, women face many challenges that affect their education, such as poverty, early marriage, and a lack of government support. Qualitative research methods and a historical approach were adopted for examination and analysis. The study examines the pivotal role of key Islamic figures and organisations in championing female education, highlighting its alignment with principles of social justice and community development. It further analyses the impact of this advocacy on policy development, assessing how it has shaped initiatives aimed at enhancing girls’ access to quality education and promoting gender equality within the Nigerian context. By synthesising historical analysis with contemporary policy evaluation, this study offers insights into ongoing efforts to harness the power of education for the empowerment of women in Nigeria’s diverse society. The study concludes that Islamic advocacy is a vibrant, necessary, and effective force in the advancement of women’s education in Nigeria. The study recommends that the government and regulatory bodies should officially integrate the Integrated Qur’anic Education (IQE) model into the national curriculum to bridge the gap between traditional Islamic learning and modern conventional schooling in Nigeria.