Should men be given Paternity Leave in Nigeria?

In this compelling episode of the Difficult Conversation Africa Podcast, we tackle a timely and under-examined topic: “Should men be granted paternity leave in Nigeria? We explore the cultural, economic, legal and social dimensions of fatherhood, caregiving, gender roles and labour rights. Our guests bring lived experience, policy insight and gender-inclusion expertise to challenge the status quo and illuminate possibilities for a more equitable workplace and family life. Whether you’re a policymaker, employer, working father or gender advocate, this conversation will prompt you to rethink what parenthood, work and responsibility look like in contemporary Nigeria. Key themes include: -Current state of paternity leave in Nigeria: what exists, what doesn’t. -The economic case for paternity leave: productivity, employee retention, workplace culture. -Gender-norms and caregiving: how men’s participation in early childcare can shift social stereotypes. -Legal and policy pathways: what frameworks exist, and what needs to change. -Real-life stories from men and families navigating fatherhood and workplace demands. -Practical steps for businesses, governments and individuals to move forward.  What listeners will gain –A clear understanding of the current landscape of paternity leave in Nigeria and how it compares internationally. -Insight into how paternity leave can benefit not just fathers and families, but organisations and society at large. -Recognition of the barriers—cultural, institutional, economic—that prevent wider adoption of paternity leave. -Actionable ideas for advocating, designing or implementing paternity leave policies in your workplace or sector. -A refreshed perspective on gender roles in caregiving, and the role of men as active participants rather than passive providers. -Inspiration from real-life voices: stories of men, partners, employers and advocates who are navigating these issues. Who should listen This episode is especially relevant for: -Working fathers (and soon-to-be fathers) in Nigeria who want to understand their rights and options. -HR professionals, business leaders and organisational change agents considering or implementing paternity leave policies. -Gender-inclusion advocates, NGOs and policy-makers focused on workplace equality, family policy and men’s involvement in caregiving. Academics, students and practitioners in procurement & supply chain, public affairs, development, who want a deeper understanding of how gender, work and social policy intersect. -Anyone interested in the evolving dynamics of family, work and gender roles in African societies. If you like this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us your thoughts in the comments especially your own experiences or ideas about paternity leave in Nigeria. Let’s continue this important conversation together.