The archive consists of a typescript 'The Catastrophe of Patriarchy', volume 1. Described as a 'critical study of the manner in which women under Matriarchy and men under Patriarchy have sought to solve the problems of Earth, Labour and Love', this volume forms Part I of a work whose complete scope is not indicated. In its six chapters, the 'problems' are set out in historical, biological, religious and economic contexts, with the patriarchal solutions found heavily wanting.

There is an extensive contents list and bibliography: many of the works cited are originally in German.

Papers, c1900-1992, collected by Jean Boyd, relating to northern Nigeria from the late 18th century to the 1990s.

Papers on Nana Asma'u include copies of her manuscript poems (1820-1865) and later papers relating to her work, including translations, 1976-1984. Papers on works by Shehu dan Fodio include copies of his poems on male-female relationships (1789 and undated) and later papers relating to his work, 1975-1981. Papers on works by Asma'u's female relatives and descendants include copies of poems and writings by various authors (c1860-1934 and undated) and later papers relating to the subject, c1950-1990. Other material comprises field notes on the remnants of Asma'u's disciples, the Yan Taru, 1973-1990; papers on the milieu in which Asma'u lived in Gobir, c1900-1984, including Gobir chiefs; papers, including press cuttings, on the situation of women in northern Nigeria in the 1980s, the subjects including Muslims, prostitution, women's organizations, medical matters, and women's education.

Papers, 1903-1992, including articles, reports and press cuttings, on Sokoto relate to geological history, prehistory, palaeontology, archaeology, pre-colonial, colonial and post-colonial history, the subjects including the social and economic history of the city of Sokoto, colonial administration, British fears over Mahdism, and local government and economic issues in Sokoto state in modern Nigeria.

Three volumes contain over 500 postcards, many in colour, relating to Nigeria, including images of people, cultural events, various places, and other aspects of Nigerian life [late 20th century].

Papers, 1917-1930, collected by Dora Earthy during her fieldwork amongst the Valenge women, including notes and drafts of her book Valenge Women: the social and economic life of the Valenge women of Portugese East Africa in various typed and hand-written stages.

Material created by the University of East London's MA in Gender, Ethnicity and Sexuality to support study, from [1990] to the time of writing, comprising: a series of folders containing academic papers related to gender, ethnicity and sexuality arranged alphabetically by the surname of the author; printed books, articles, periodicals, journals, course materials, statistics, newssheets, conference materials, academic papers and press cuttings. Topics include racism, multiculturalism, feminism, sexuality, religion, the state, society, development, aid, education, health, culture, gender, international organisations, war, community, human rights, nationalism, imperialism, colonialism, migration, refugees, citizenship, ethnicity and indigenous people.

Minutes of the Ladies Committee, 1849-1893, including the provisional Ladies Committee set up in 1849 and containing a list of the original Lady Visitors and a draft of the rules concerning the conduct of the young ladies; locked book containing notes by the Lady Visitors, 1850-1851, and lists of members of the House Committee, Library Committee, Education Committee and the Council, 1882-1893.