Abstract

Efunsetan Aniwura is an example of an African woman who stood against male chauvinism and gender inequity in her time. She wielded economic power in that she owned her own household full of slaves. As her name depicts “Aniwura” meaning “owner of wealth”, was a woman of wealth and spiritual depth in power and authority. A psycho-historical exposition of her personality will reveal the male chauvinistic character of the African society as well as its traditional role of silencing women in the past. This psycho-historical exposition of the personality of Efunsetan Aniwura will no doubt assist in the creation of enabling environment for the present African women to participate in the national development of low-income earning nations of Africa. Realizing Africa’s androcentric cultural and social leaning, this study will also aid in suggesting some extra and special measures that are required to enhance equitable participation of women in national development. Through the pains and agony of Efunsetan Aniwura, this paper identifies the root of gender inequity and discusses issues relating to gender equity in national development in Africa. It suggests practical approaches to equitable participation of women in nation building

Key words: Bridging, gender, equity gap, psycho-historical exposition, Efunsetan Aniwura.