Nigerian government, stakeholders advise increase investments in women

The federal government and stakeholders in the health sector have suggested increased investments in women’s health and empowerment to enhance their access to quality healthcare and opportunities in Nigeria.

They made this call in Abuja during the Womanhood Art Gala, organised by Nigeria Health Watch.

According to the Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch, Vivianne Ihekweazu, “We must all invest in ensuring that every woman, regardless of her background, has access to the healthcare she needs.”

Ihekweazu explained that disparities in maternal health outcomes, especially in Nigeria, remain alarmingly high, stressing that Nigeria continues to record one of the highest maternal mortality rates (MMR) globally, with over 1,000 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births—far from the UN Sustainable Development Goal of reducing global MMR to below 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.

She stated that this stark reality reminds Nigerians of the urgent need to ensure every woman has access to the care she needs to survive pregnancy and childbirth.

The Director of MSD for Mothers, Nigeria and Kenya, Mrs. Iyadunni Olubode, emphasized the significance of investing in women’s health, pointing out that women are key contributors to the economy and that improving their access to healthcare enhances the overall well-being of families.

The Director-General of the National Gallery of Arts, Ahmed Bashir, represented by the Director of Educational Services, Janefrances Gbujie, stressed the importance of art in advocating for maternal healthcare, stating that harnessing the power of art to spotlight maternal healthcare is crucial, as maternal health is a key indicator of a society’s overall health.

Dr. Zainab Bagudu, founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation and wife of the former governor of Kebbi State, stressed the need to empower women in all spheres due to their marginalisation, saying that women often bear the burden of their families and, by extension, the entire community.

She said, “When you empower a woman, you empower the community and the nation.”

Nigerian government, stakeholders advise increase investments in women