UNIT 4: Social Stratification in Nigeria 4.1 Class and Inequality Nigeria is one of the most unequal countries in the world. Despite being Africa's largest economy (GDP over $440 billion), the majority of Nigerians live in poverty. Nigeria has frequently ranked among the world's top countries by number of people in extreme poverty. • A tiny economic elite controls vast wealth — often derived from oil revenues, government contracts, or political connections. • A small but growing middle class exists in major cities (Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt). • The vast majority — particularly in rural areas and Northern Nigeria — live in poverty, with limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. 4.2 Gender and Social Structure Gender inequality is deeply embedded in Nigeria's social structure, though significant regional and generational variations exist: • In many Northern communities, Purdah (female seclusion) limits women's movement, education, and economic participation. • Women face higher rates of illiteracy, poverty, and exclusion from political leadership. • Legal discrimination persists in family law, inheritance, and land ownership in many states. • Despite these challenges, Nigerian women have made significant progress in education, entrepreneurship, and civil society. 4.3 Youth and Social Structure Nigeria has the world's largest youth population, with over 60% of Nigerians under 25. This demographic is both an enormous opportunity and a significant challenge: • High youth unemployment (estimated at over 40%) creates conditions for social unrest and recruitment by armed groups. • The #EndSARS protests of 2020 demonstrated the power of young Nigerians to mobilize for political change. • Youth are the primary victims