GENDER OPPORTUNITY GAP AND WAGE DIFFERENTIALS IN THE BANKING SECTOR OF NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of gender opportunity gap on wage
differentials in the banking sector of Nigeria, using Access Bank PLC as a unit of analysis.
Specifically, the study investigated the effects of unequal leadership promotion on basic salary
differentials between men and women, as well as how unequal work transfer opportunities
affect housing allowance payments to men and women. The study employed a survey and
descriptive research design. Questionnaires and interview methods were used for data
collection. The sample size was 320. Data analysis revealed that there is no significant
relationship between unequal leadership promotion and base pay differences for men and
women and that there is no significant relationship between unequal work transfer
opportunities and housing allowance differentials for men and women. This study bridges a
gap in the existing literature by examining specific organizational practices that perpetuate
gender-based wage differentials in the Nigerian banking sector. Based on the findings, it was
recommended that banks should develop clear and unbiased promotion criteria that are
accessible to all employees and regularly review compensation structures to identify and
address any discrepancies.