SRHIN AFRICA Website
Blog post
How women's health and rights are being trampled in Nigeria
- Peace Oregbesan
Health Equity
Gender Equality
Slum and Rural Health initiative
In Nigeria, women continue to be discriminated against in all aspects of life, particularly in the exercise of political power, healthcare, finding jobs with adequate remuneration, establishing property rights, access to education, and exercising reproductive rights. Despite progress in certain areas, all these numerous factors contribute to the ongoing struggle for women to access quality healthcare and exercise their rights effectively.
Healthcare
Another prominent issue is the prevalence of maternal mortality, with Nigeria accounting for a significant portion of global maternal deaths. Limited access to maternal healthcare services, inadequate facilities, and cultural barriers often prevent women from receiving timely and appropriate care during pregnancy and childbirth.
Additionally, unsafe abortion practices contribute to maternal mortality rates, highlighting the need for comprehensive reproductive healthcare services and education.
Political Power
In Nigeria, women are often underrepresented in politics. There's a big problem with representation. Picture a room where important decisions are made about things like healthcare and laws. In Nigeria, that room is often dominated by men. This means women's perspectives and needs might not get the attention they deserve. Also, there are lots of barriers that are stopping women from getting into politics. Imagine wanting to join a game, but the rules are stacked against you. That's what it's like for many women in Nigeria who want to get involved in politics. They might face things like discrimination, lack of support, or even threats to their safety.
Finding jobs with adequate remuneration
Finding a job in Nigeria can be tough for women, and even tougher when it comes to getting paid fairly. There's a big gap between men and women when it comes to job opportunities. Imagine a race where some people start way ahead of others. That's what it can feel like for women in Nigeria. They often have fewer chances to find good jobs compared to men. Even when women do manage to get jobs, they often get paid less than men for doing the same job. It's like two people doing the same amount of work, but one gets a bigger reward than the other.
Women in Nigeria often face discrimination in the workplace. They might not get promoted as easily as men or have access to the same opportunities. When women aren't paid fairly, it affects their ability to take care of their health and make important decisions about their lives.
Gender-Based Violence
Furthermore, gender-based violence remains a prevalent problem, with many women experiencing physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Deep-rooted cultural norms and societal attitudes often perpetuate this violence, leaving women vulnerable and without adequate support systems.
In addressing these challenges, it is crucial to prioritize women's health and rights as fundamental human rights. The Slum and Rural Health Initiative is creating awareness by promoting gender equity, and girls' education, and providing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services. Additionally, we are challenging harmful cultural practices, and empowering women to advocate for their rights which are essential steps in creating a more equitable and just society.
Furthermore, gender-based violence remains a prevalent problem, with many women experiencing physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Deep-rooted cultural norms and societal attitudes often perpetuate this violence, leaving women vulnerable and without adequate support systems.
By recognizing and addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by women in Nigeria, we can work towards ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to live a healthy, empowered life, free from discrimination and violence.