By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare for women across Nigeria, as the global community celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD), 2025.
Dr Fejiro Chinye-Nwoko, Managing Director/CEO, NSSF made the commitment in a statement on Saturday to mark IWD, 2025.
Chinye -Nwoko said that the 2025 IWD campaign theme, “Accelerate Action,” resonates with NSSF impactful programmes.
She said that since its inception, NSSF had been accelerating action by equipping young advocates, driving grassroots interventions, and ensuring that more women have access to the care they deserve.
“As the world marks IWD 2025, we NSSF recognize this day as more than a celebration—it is a call to action.
“This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action”, resonates deeply with our mission to improve healthcare access and equity, particularly for Nigerian women who continue to face systemic challenges in accessing essential health services.
“Women’s health is a national priority,” Chinye – Nwoko said.
According to her, available statistics show that Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with 512 deaths per 100,000 live births (WHO, 2023).
While alluding to a UNFPA (2023) report, Chinye – Nwoko said that 45 per cent of Nigerian women lack access to reproductive health services adding that issues like postpartum depression and maternal mental health remain largely unaddressed
She noted that the statistics highlight the urgent need for sustainable interventions that ensure every woman has the right to quality healthcare.
“At NSSF, we believe that the path to improving women’s health lies in advocacy, youth engagement, and collaborative action.
” Our initiatives are designed to equip young Nigerians with the knowledge, skills, and platforms needed to drive meaningful change in their communities.
“Through programmes like the WeNaija Impact Cohort, we are mobilising young people to lead discussions and interventions on issues such as sexual and reproductive health, contraceptive awareness, and maternal mental health,” Chinye – Nwoko said.
She said that young people are at the heart of change, adding that they are not just the future; they are the present.
“By empowering them to advocate, innovate, and take action, we are building a sustainable movement that ensures Nigerian women receive the healthcare they deserve.
“Today, we call on government agencies, policymakers, private organisations, and civil society to accelerate action for women’s health.
“Investment in women’s healthcare is an investment in the economic and social development of Nigeria.
“We urge every Nigerian to join this movement, whether by engaging in advocacy, supporting women in their communities,” Chinye – Nwoko said.
She enjoined everyone to take decisive steps toward creating a healthier and more equitable future for all.
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