IWD: AHF calls for action to address inequalities affecting the female gender

By Benedicta Aboh

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has called on leaders, policymakers and communities to take decisive steps to eliminate inequalities that continue to hinder the health, safety and opportunities of women and girls.

The call was made in a statement issued by the Advocacy and Marketing Manager of AHF Nigeria, Steve Aborisade, to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).

According to the statement, AHF joined women and girls across the world in celebrating their achievements while advocating stronger action to remove barriers to health, equality and opportunity.

AHF Nigeria noted that it would mark the 2026 IWD with activities across all the states where it operates including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Nasarawa.

The organisation stated that the theme for this year’s celebration, “Give To Gain,” underscores the importance of collective support and investment in women and girls to build stronger and more prosperous communities.

Despite decades of progress in gender equality, the organisation observed that women and girls remain disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where they account for over 60 per cent of new infections.

It attributed the situation to persistent challenges such as gender-based violence, limited access to healthcare, restrictions on reproductive rights, income inequality and limited educational opportunities.

The organisation also noted that millions of women and girls still lack access to affordable menstrual health products and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, factors that undermine their dignity, mobility and opportunities.

As part of activities to commemorate the day, AHF Nigeria said it would organise a Continuous Medical Education (CME) programme for health workers in more than 156 healthcare facilities where the foundation provides services across its seven states of operation.

According to the organisation, the training will focus on the gender dimensions of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and provide strategies for healthcare workers to better support women, particularly those living in rural communities.

Speaking on the initiative, the AHF Nigeria Country Programme Director, Dr. Echey Ijezie, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to advancing the welfare of women and girls.

“AHF Nigeria places enormous value on women and girls in society, which is why our programmes are strongly anchored on positively impacting their lives. We will continue to prioritise issues affecting women while calling on leaders, policymakers and communities to turn their commitments into action that will accelerate development for women and young girls,” he said.

AHF also reaffirmed its commitment to advocating policies that protect and uplift women globally.

The foundation noted that its interventions include the distribution of free menstrual health products, campaigns against gender-based violence and the expansion of access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care services.

According to the organisation, empowering women ultimately strengthens families and communities. “Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When individuals, organisations and communities give women and young girls the opportunities and support they deserve, the entire community thrives,” the statement added.

AHF therefore urged stakeholders to move beyond commitments and implement practical actions that would guarantee a healthier and more equitable future for women and girls.