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IWD: Journalists Network demands justice over violation of women’s rights
As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, the Network of Reproductive Health Journalists, Nigeria (NRHJN) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to championing women’s rights, especially reproductive rights, which are essential to achieving gender equality and social justice.
In a statement signed by its Ondo State Coordinator, Fatima Muraina, the NRHJN emphasised that this year’s theme, “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”, underscores the critical role reproductive health plays in women’s empowerment.
“No woman can truly be empowered unless she has full control over her reproductive health,” the statement read, highlighting the need for women to have the right to make informed decisions about their bodies, access quality healthcare without discrimination, and be free from coercion or violence.
Despite global progress, the NRHJN decried the persistent barriers Nigerian women and girls face in accessing reproductive healthcare, as well as the prevalence of harmful practices and injustices that continue to undermine their dignity.
The group insisted that perpetrators of such violations must be held accountable.
“It is unacceptable that in many parts of Nigeria, women still endure these injustices.
“Laws must not only be enacted but fully implemented, and offenders must face the full wrath of justice,” the statement added.
The group called on the government, lawmakers, healthcare institutions, and civil society to prioritise policies that protect women’s reproductive rights, ensure comprehensive healthcare services, and uphold justice for victims of gender-based violations.
Reaffirming its role in the fight for women’s rights, the NRHJN pledged to continue shedding light on these pressing issues and holding stakeholders accountable to ensure that no woman is denied her right to reproductive health.
“A just and equitable society is only possible when women’s rights, including reproductive rights, are fully recognised and protected,” the statement concluded.
As Nigeria joins the world in marking this significant day, the message remains clear: women’s empowerment is incomplete without reproductive freedom, and the fight for gender equality must not waver.