GENDER INEQUALITY AND ACCESS TO THE INTERNET: A STUDY OF LAFIA METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

Electronic communications networks that connects people the world over is fast becoming cheaper, purposeful and beneficial to users. However, in this age of modern technologies, the idea of mainstreaming the female gender, especially in male-dominated cultures into this social activity and civilization is still a far cry. A high percentage of the population constituting of women have limited or no access to the internet. The study identified major obstacles limiting women's access to the internet and how to increase network access. Therefore, this study explores gender inequality and their privation to social media usage. Its major argument is that the internet which is supposed be an empowering mechanism for women as development partners in society are deprived of the gains and participation in that space. The study assumes that; the internet has the potential to promote gender equality, increase productivity, reduce poverty and contribute to sustainable development. Besides, it would lead to job creation and consequently increase people's income with a multiplier effect of ergonometric. It is believed that nations that develop the capacity to manage valuable information within the cyber space and make such accessible to their citizens are likely to experience enhanced productivity and greater wealth. Considering the importance of the new media platforms; internet connectivity and usage can be greatly improved through the inclusion of women bearing in mind their population in society. The study applied the liberal feminist theory, and it employed quantitative and qualitative method of data collection. Questionnaire was administered to one hundred and twenty five women who were randomly selected, and for the qualitative data, in-depth interview was utilized. The study concludes that; the nature and level of women's participation in the internet in Lafia Metropolis is abysmal. The study recommends that more women need to be enlighten on the importance of the usefulness of the internet in the modern world as well as calling for safer cyber space