Stakeholders in the health sector have called on the government to increase funding for sexual and reproductive health rights while ensuring equitable access to maternal healthcare.
This appeal was made during the “Stride for HER Rights Maternal Healthcare Walkathon” organized by Global Citizen in partnership with the Lagos State Government, the Lagos Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Tourism.
The event took place on Saturday along the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge.
Global Citizen, an international advocacy organisation focused on ending extreme poverty, spearheaded the initiative, bringing together thousands of Global Citizens, civil society leaders, and government representatives.
Participants included members from Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF), Wellbeing Foundation Africa, Nigerian Solidarity Support Fund, and HelpMum, all calling for enhanced maternal and child healthcare services across Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director for Africa at Global Citizen, Iphie Chuks-Adizue, emphasised the urgency of prioritising maternal health, sexual and reproductive healthcare, and neonatal care, which continue to suffer from inadequate funding and limited access.
“As part of this year’s Move Afrika citizen-led advocacy campaign, we are calling on African nations to increase domestic health financing and prioritise maternal healthcare to ensure equitable access for all,” Chuks-Adizue said. “This event highlights the critical role of community health workers and the urgent need for policy reforms to support them and their work.”
Other speakers included the founder of WARIF, Dr. Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, who provided insights into maternal health challenges in Nigeria.
Special Adviser at the Lagos Ministry of Health, Mrs. Olukemi Ogunyemi, reiterated the government’s commitment to improving maternal healthcare services.
Several participants stressed the importance of empowering community health workers to strengthen sexual and reproductive health, maternal care, and neonatal healthcare services across Nigeria.
Along the walkathon route, participants engaged in interactive educational activities on sexual and reproductive health, as well as neonatal care.
The event also featured a live petition, where attendees signed in support of increased health budget allocations.
A storytelling wall showcased testimonies and personal experiences from individuals impacted by the efforts of community health workers.
Some participants who completed the walkathon earned tickets to Global Citizen’s Move Afrika event, scheduled for February 25 at The Palms, Lagos.
