General News
Nigeria Strengthens Commitment to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights at ICPD 30th Anniversary
By Iyojo Ameh
Stakeholders across various sectors gathered today at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).
The event was organized by the National Population Commission (NPC) in collaboration with UNFPA Nigeria and other partners. It attracted key figures, including high-ranking government officials, diplomats, development partners, and representatives from civil society organizations.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of the NPC, highlighted Nigeria’s progress in advancing sexual and reproductive health rights over the past three decades. He underscored the government’s increased investment in maternal and child health services and policies to combat gender-based violence (GBV).
However, Hon. Kwarra noted a significant challenge: the delay in conducting the Population and Housing Census, which affects accurate resource allocation and effective policy-making. “This census is critical to ensuring that underserved communities are not left behind,” he stated.
Calling for collaboration among stakeholders, he reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ICPD goals, emphasizing that equitable access to reproductive health services is essential for national prosperity and social justice.
Representing the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Mr. Mike Imafidon urged for comprehensive policies that uplift women and foster gender equality.
“Engaging men and boys as allies in this fight is critical to creating a culture of respect and equality,” he said, adding that addressing GBV and ensuring women’s empowerment are vital steps toward sustainable development.
Ambassador Adam Bako, representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stressed the importance of global partnerships in achieving the goals of the ICPD Programme of Action.
Mrs. Toyin Saraki, Founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, reflected on Nigeria’s slower progress in reducing maternal mortality compared to global trends. She noted that one in 22 Nigerian women still faces a risk of dying from pregnancy-related complications. Reaffirming her commitment to the “Three Zeros” agenda—zero unmet need for family planning, zero preventable maternal deaths, and zero gender-based violence—Saraki called for urgent action to bridge gaps in maternal healthcare.
Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas-Kolo, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Health, highlighted government initiatives to strengthen universal health coverage for women and vulnerable groups. She acknowledged ongoing challenges, including low family planning adoption rates and inadequate emergency obstetric care services.
Mr. Koessan Kuawu, UNFPA Officer-in-Charge, commended Nigeria’s progress but emphasized the need for sustained investment in health systems and youth engagement. “The march continues, and so must our efforts to ensure that no one is left behind,” he said, urging stakeholders to intensify their focus on reproductive health and gender equity.
The event provided an opportunity to assess Nigeria’s progress in meeting the ICPD Programme of Action goals while charting a path forward. Participants agreed on the need for inclusive policies, greater investment in reproductive health, and stronger partnerships to address inequalities.
As Nigeria recommits to the ICPD vision, stakeholders pledged to work together to build a future where everyone can exercise their sexual and reproductive health rights freely and equitably.
The march, they affirmed, continues—strengthened by unity, resilience, and a shared determination to overcome the challenges ahead.
