The work-life balance of working mothers in Nigeria: the moderating role of culture

This study examines the work-life balance of working mothers in Nigeria, focusing on the mediating role of culture. Using a secondary qualitative research approach, the study focuses on the nature of the work-life balance of working mothers in the Nigerian banking and health sectors, the prevalent culture in the working climate of working mothers and the working hours in the banking and health sectors. The findings, among other things, reveal a prevalent culture of long working hours, required physical presence, high workload and pressure with no flexibility in both sectors. Moreover, the lack of adequate support from their professional and personal networks hampers the achievement of work-life balance for working mothers in the understudied sectors. In addition, the socio-cultural influences (i.e. patriarchy, high power distance, religious norms) that affect how women are perceived, leading to gender stereotypes and unequal gendered roles, have significant implications for the gendered nature of work-life balance in Nigeria. Some recommendations were made in light of the findings. Prominent among them is the need for the government, employers and other relevant authorities to initiate policies addressing the inability of working mothers to achieve work-life balance in the Nigerian banking and health sectors and making it more flexible for working mothers.