Christian Women and The Development of Western Education in South-Western Nigeria: A Historical Review

Abstract

The practice of discrimination against women in most forms of leadership in Nigeria is just like Jewish cultural tradition. In Yorùbá land of South-Western Nigeria society today, some people do not value the leadership of women, more especially in the area of Christian education. It is a fact that no generation can rise above the level of its leadership. Since education is one of the most important requisites for national development, as well as the bed rock of any developing or developed nation, it is imperative that women should be involved, as they are often strong and reliable Christian leaders with integrity in the Nigerian educational system. The standard of Nigerian educational system is falling gradually in almost all facets of life in which Yorùbá land of South-Western is part of it. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of Women in the development of western education in Yorùbá land, South-Western Nigeria, comparing their roles to women in the Early Christian Church Fathers’ Dispensation. The qualitative, historical approach was used to achieve this purpose. The study therefore recommended that interested and virtuous Christian women should be involved in the leadership of Yorùbá land, South-Western Nigeria educational system. Women like Deborah, Ruth, Esther and Priscilla of old should contribute their own quota to the uplifting, growth and development of Nigeria educational system.