The study examined factors encouraging gender inequality in university management in three selected universities in Southwestern Nigeria. This was with a view to assessing women's participation in the senior management positions in the region. Data were obtained from primary and secondary sources. A questionnaire was administered to senior academic and non-academic staff in Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; and Redeemer's University, Mowe. Out of the 222 copies of the questionnaire administered, 192 copies (86.5%) were retrieved. Interviews were also conducted with the most senior staff in the selected universities to elicit information on senior management positions held by women compared to men. The data were analysed using inferential statistics and content analysis. The results showed that there was low representation of women (29.2%) compared to men (70.8%) in senior management positions in the selected universities. This was attributed to inadequate numbers of qualified women (42.6%), patriarchy (14.9%), domestic and family demands (10.6%), socio-cultural beliefs that leadership is the prerogative of men (9.6%), lack of encouragement and support (8.5%), lack of leadership skills (7.5%) and poor mentorship (2.1%), among other factors. Policy implications of the study are discussed.