Engagement of Muslim Women in Governance and Public Administration: The Ilorin Emirate Experience

Muslim women through the ages have contributed immensely to the socio-political and economic development of various societies. Considerable number of Muslim women had in the past decades involved actively in the governance of their nations. This study focuses on the status and role of Muslim women in democratic governance and public administration in Ilorin Emirate, Kwara State of Nigeria from 1999-2007. Since 1999, when democracy recommenced in Nigeria, few Muslim women in Ilorin Emirate have emerged as commissioners, board members and functionaries in other public sphere. It argues that Muslim women’s involvement in governance and in the conduct of public life has a great deal of impact on the improvement of their social position and the process of their empowerment. It submits with certain suggestions towards enhancing the performance of Muslim women in governance and public administration in the Emirate.