Focusing on Change in Educational Leadership: The Need for Female Leaders in Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria

Abstract

The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guaranteed social, economic and political rights to all citizens irrespective of sex, age, religion, cultural background among others. But it was observed that women are under-represented in leadership positions in the tertiary education sector of the nation, even though they constitute the majority of the teaching workforce. They seem to possess unique qualities that enhance their leadership potentials, as they bring into leadership communication, intermediary and interpersonal skills that many men do not possess. This paper argues that educational leadership in Nigeria need to be re-focused. It presents research findings using Personality assessment questions, demographic analysis and interview on the personality qualities and motivational factors of leaders in the tertiary institutions in Anambra State of Nigeria. Literature were reviewed on leadership, educational leadership, changes and rational for change in formal organization and female leadership. It concludes that there are no distinctive variance in male and female leadership roles. But that female leaders are more assertive, persuasive, emphatic, flexible and are willing to take risks etc. That application of more sustainable leadership styles would lead to change in educational leadership in Nigeria.