International Women's Day: Women And Girls In Nigeria Risk Waiting More Than A lifetime For Equality.....Sightsavers

As the World celebrate International Women's Day, SightSavers, an international charity working to support equality for women, girls and people, have warned that Women and Girls in Nigeria risk waiting more than a lifetime for equality 

The Organization which works with governments and partners to ensure that women including women with disabilities can access the healthcare, training, and professional opportunities they deserve, in a statement by its Communication Associate,  Joy Tarbo, stated that, "When it comes to health care, education and employment, the gender gap is a huge chasm. 

According to the statement, "A girl born today will have to wait 123 years beyond her expected lifespan – for equality to be  achieved globally.   

"Compared to men, women and girls are less likely to get the health care they need, go to school, or have a job.

"In Nigeria, women continue to face significant barriers to entering and thriving in specialised medical fields. 

"Despite this, women like Dr Linda Nwodo, the first female Doctor trained by Sightsavers to conduct hydrocele surgery, are breaking new ground and reshaping what representation looks like in healthcare.

"Sightsavers works with governments and partners to ensure that women including women with disabilities can access the healthcare, training, and professional opportunities they deserve. 

"These inclusive investments strengthen health systems and communities.

Picture of Dr Linda Nwodo

Also reflecting on her journey, Dr Linda Nwodo said, "Empowering women in health professions isn’t just for their personal growth,  it strengthens entire communities. 

"When women are supported to develop their abilities, everyone benefits.”

The statement reads that,  Dr Linda Nwodo's work demonstrates how increasing women’s representation widens access to patient-centred care, inspires girls considering careers in science and medicine, and restores dignity to individuals affected by neglected tropical diseases. 

Prof Joy Shu’aibu, Country Director for Sightsavers, emphasised the essential role women play in achieving a more equitable health system:

According to her, “Dr Linda’s achievements show why investing in women is non-negotiable. 

"When women are given the tools, training and opportunities to lead in specialised health fields, they drive transformative change not just for patients, but for entire communities. 

"Nigeria cannot afford to leave half of its talent behind.”

"To accelerate progress, Sightsavers is calling for increased investment in programmes that support women and girls, particularly those with disabilities. 

"By working together to remove structural barriers and promote equality, gender equity can be achieved within the lifetime of future generations.The Country Director stated.

 





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