International Journal of Education, Learning and Development Vol. 12, No.4, pp.16-37, 2024 Print ISSN: 2054-6297(Print) Online ISSN: 2054-6300 (Online) Website: https://www.eajournals.org/ Publication of the European Centre for Research Training and Development-UK 16 Gender Disparity in Principal Officers’ Positions in Nigerian Universities: Implications for Educational Planners and Administrators Okonta, V. And *Nkedishu, V. C. Department of Educational Management and Foundations Faculty of Education, Delta State University, Abraka. Nigeria *Correspondence Email: chuksjp@gmail.com, vcnkedishu@delsu.edu.ng doi: https://doi.org/10.37745/ijeld.2013/vol12n41637 Published April 10, 2024 Citation: Okonta, V. and Nkedishu, V. C. (2024) Gender Disparity in Principal Officers’ Positions in Nigerian Universities: Implications for Educational Planners and Administrators, International Journal of Education, Learning and Development, Vol. 12, No.4, pp.16-37 ABSTRACT: The study investigates the gender disparities in leadership positions within Nigerian universities, focusing on principal officers such as Vice-Chancellors, Deputy Vice- Chancellors, Registrars, Bursars, and Librarians. Analyzing data from the 2019 Nigerian University System Statistical Digest. The study employs ANOVA statistics to establish the statistical significance of these disparities and highlights the need for targeted interventions to rectify these imbalances. The research reveals striking imbalances in gender representation across these roles. The findings demonstrate that, despite notable progress in some areas, women remain significantly underrepresented in key leadership positions, with a pronounced gender gap persisting across various types of universities (federal, state, and private). The recommendations offered encompass gender-neutral selection processes, affirmative action policies, leadership development programs, mentorship initiatives, educational campaigns, and regular data collection to promote gender equity. These proposed strategies aim to create a more inclusive academic environment where leadership positions are accessible to all based on qualifications and merit, ultimately fostering diversity and enriching the higher education landscape in Nigeria. KEYWORDS: gender disparity, principal officers, Nigerian universities, educational planners, administrators.