Paper short abstract:

This study explores the multifaceted struggles of feminists in Nigeria for political representation and women's rights. Drawing on historical contexts, the research will highlight the foundation laid for contemporary gender parity struggles as exemplified by the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) movement

Paper long abstract:

This study will explore the intricate interplay between pre-colonial feminist activism and its enduring influence on the postcolonial feminist protest movements in Nigeria, as exemplified by the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) movement. The study will delve into the historical roots of feminist activism in pre-colonial Nigeria, focusing on the diverse ways in which women engaged in political representation struggles and fought for their rights before colonization. The primary objective of this study is to assess how pre-colonial feminist activism has shaped and inspired the strategies, goals, and discourse of Nigerian feminists in the postcolonial period via technologies. To achieve this, a critical analysis of the BBOG movement will be conducted, tracing its origins, key actors, and advocacy methods. This movement, which emerged in response to the abduction of 276 schoolgirls by Boko-Haram in 2014, serves as a contemporary case study through which we examine the legacy and relevance of pre-colonial feminist ideals in contemporary Nigeria. The study will reveal how pre-colonial female leaders, such as Queen Amina of Zazzau, Margaret Ekpo, and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti as well as feminist movements like the Aba Women Riot have inspired contemporary Nigerian feminists. The study will utilize a qualitative case study methodology, employing extensive archival research, in-depth interviews and social media discourse. Conclusively, the study will argue that pre-colonial feminist activism, which was characterized by women's participation in political decision-making and resistance to patriarchal norms, has inspired contemporary feminist movements in Nigeria to demand greater political representation and advocate for women's rights.