NDHS: Nigerian regions show huge disparity in spousal earnings

• South South most equal

By Grace Edet

New data from the 2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) has revealed major regional disparities in spousal earnings, showing that most Nigerian wives aged 15–49 earn less than their husbands, despite growing pockets of income equality across the country.
According to figures shared by Statisense on Tuesday, the trend is most pronounced in the North-West, where 941 in 1,000 wives earn less than their husbands, while only 29 in 1,000 earn more. The region also recorded the lowest rate of non-earning husbands, with just 7 in 1,000 women reporting partners with no income.
In contrast, the South South posted the strongest levels of income parity. The region recorded 113 in 1,000 wives earning the same as their husbands, the highest nationwide. It also had the largest share of women earning more than their spouses at 61 in 1,000.
The North East also showed notable shifts. While 30 in 1,000 wives out-earn their husbands, one of the highest shares in the country, the region still reported that 888 in 1,000 women earn less, reflecting wide inequality despite emerging improvements.
The North Central displayed more balanced figures, with 46 in 1,000 women earning more, and 65 in 1,000 earning equally, though 848 in 1,000 wives still fall below their husbands’ income levels.
In the South East, income gaps remain significant but show signs of narrowing. The data shows 57 in 1,000 wives earn more, 82 in 1,000 earn equally, while 775 in 1,000 still earn less than their husbands.
For the South West, 45 in 1,000 wives earn more, and 75 in 1,000 earn the same, but 824 in 1,000 wives still earn below their husbands’ earnings. Only 11 in 1,000 husbands reported having no income.
The NDHS 2024 findings highlight a consistent national pattern: while traditional income structures remain strong, especially in northern regions, the southern zones, particularly the South South, are showing faster shifts toward income equality within households.
Experts say the trend reflects broader economic realities, including rising female participation in formal work, regional differences in literacy levels, and contrasting socio-cultural expectations about household roles.
The full survey continues to shape policy discussions on women’s economic empowerment, labour participation, and regional development priorities.