Taoreed Abdullahi
To create a healthier and more equitable future in reproductive health rights, the non-governmental organization, HACEY, has joined other civil society organizations in urging the government and relevant stakeholders to prioritize and educate girls and women about their rights.
The Executive Director of HACEY, Mrs. Rhoda Robinson, made this call during a walk called “STRIDE FOR HER RIGHTS,” held in the Lekki area of Lagos State as part of the Global Citizen Move Afrika initiative.
Mrs. Robinson emphasized that educating girls and women would empower them to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health.
She stated that Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights, SRHR, are essential for mental well-being and human dignity, and they require proper attention to strengthen public health systems, provide young people with access to accurate information, and advocate for inclusive policy reforms.
The programme aims to increase domestic health financing, prioritize primary healthcare, and encourage global investment in health resilience to ensure sustainable, rights-based public health solutions.
Mrs Robinson reiterated HACEY’s commitment to dismantling stigma, enhancing SRHR services, and advocating for policy reforms that guarantee comprehensive, youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services.
She underscored the organization’s dedication to ensuring that no girl or young woman is left behind in the pursuit of reproductive health rights, equitable healthcare, and gender equality.
Contributing, the Special Adviser on Health to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi highlighted the Lagos State government’s efforts to implement policies and programmes that guarantee quality healthcare and safe delivery for women and young girls.
Celebrity Ada Afoluwake Ogunkeye, also known as Folu Storms, called for greater involvement in amplifying the voices of young girls and advocating for women’s health. She stressed the importance of policy change and youth empowerment, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Some of the placards at the event read, “Stride for Equity,” “Stride for Justice,” “Walk for a Healthier Future,” “Reproductive Health is Not Negotiable,” and “Every Step for Her Right.”