By Fatima Muraina, Tola Gbadamosi, Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

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As the world marked the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD), the Network of Reproductive Health Journalists, Nigeria (NRHJN), joined in amplifying the call for women’s rights, particularly their reproductive rights, which remain fundamental to gender equality and social justice.

In a statement issued by the Coordinator of NRHJN in Ondo State, Alhaja Fatima Muraina, she emphasised that women must have the right to make informed decisions about their bodies, access quality healthcare without discrimination, and be free from coercion, violence, or societal pressure that infringe upon their dignity.

The statement acknowledged that in many parts of Nigeria, women and girls still face barriers to accessing reproductive healthcare, endure harmful practices, and suffer injustice when their rights are violated.

It reads “We must collectively ensure that those who perpetuate such barbaric victimization are held accountable.”

It further pointed out that laws must not only be enacted but fully implemented, ensuring that offenders face the full wrath of justice as a deterrent to others.

Similarly, The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, joined the global community in celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 with a resounding call to accelerate action for women’s empowerment.

The event, held at the Army Officers’ Mess in Owena Cantonment, Akure, focused on supporting the wives of fallen heroes.

Speaking at the programme, the State Coordinator, Mrs. Chinyelu Andrea Ifeanyi, emphasised the importance of educating officers’ wives to build a strong future for their daughters.

She expressed special appreciation to the NAOWA National President, Mrs. Mernan Oluyede, the Chairperson of NAOWA 2 Division, Mrs. Adaobi Ijeoma Onubogu, and the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade for their unwavering support in making the event a significant milestone in NAOWA’s mission to empower women.

In her paper presentation on the topic “The Woman and Her Reproductive Health,” Gynecologist and Obstetrician, Reverend Sister Dr. Titilayo Abe advised women to prioritize their health through regular exercise and a healthy diet.

Also, The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Osun State, has emphasised that education is key to development.

The association joined the global community in celebrating the remarkable women of Osun State on this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, with the theme “Accelerating Action.”

NAWOJ highlighted that meaningful development cannot be achieved without formal education.

This year’s theme underscored the urgent need to move beyond discussions and take decisive steps toward achieving gender equality, opportunity, women’s empowerment, and inclusive development.

According to a statement jointly signed by the Chairperson of the association, Comrade Abisola Ariwodola, and the Secretary, Oluwaranti Ojewumi, NAWOJ acknowledged the efforts of the state government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke, as well as civil society organizations and stakeholders in advancing women’s rights.

“However, more needs to be done. We call for accelerated action in key areas such as political and economic empowerment, where more women must be given leadership opportunities and equal access to resources. the statement acknowledged

In addition, education and skills development require increased investment in education and digital skills training for young girls and women. Existing policies must be improved to benefit the female gender.