By Peter Duru, Makurdi

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has called on leaders, policymakers and communities to take concrete steps toward eliminating inequalities that continue to hinder the health, safety and opportunities of women and girls.

The call was made in a statement by the
Advocacy and Marketing Manager of AHF Nigeria, Steve Aborisade as the organization join the global community to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD), with the theme “Give To Gain”, emphasizing the need for stronger support systems that empower women and improve their wellbeing.

AHF Nigeria said it would mark the occasion with activities across the states where it operates, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Nasarawa.

The global organization noted that despite decades of progress in gender equality, women and girls remain disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where they account for over 60 percent of new infections.

It noted that several factors such as gender-based violence, poor access to healthcare, reproductive rights restrictions, income inequality and limited educational opportunities continue to widen the gap.

It also highlighted that millions of women and girls still lack access to affordable menstrual health products and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, issues that undermine their dignity, mobility and opportunities.

To mark this year’s celebration, AHF Nigeria said it would organize a Continuous Medical Education (CME) programme for health workers in more than 156 healthcare facilities where the foundation provides services across its seven states of operation.

The training, according to the organization, will focus on the gender dimensions of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and equip healthcare workers with strategies to better support women, particularly those in rural communities.

Speaking on the initiative, the AHF Nigeria Country Programme Director, Dr. Echey Ijezie, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing the welfare of women and girls.

“AHF Nigeria places enormous value on women and girls in society, which is why our programmes are strongly anchored on impacting their lives positively,” he said.

He added, “We will continue to prioritise issues affecting women while calling on leaders, policymakers and communities to turn their commitments into concrete actions that will accelerate development for women and young girls.”

AHF also reiterated its commitment to advocating policies that protect and uplift women globally. The foundation noted that its interventions include the distribution of free menstrual products, campaigns against gender-based violence and expanded access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care services.

The organisation stressed that empowering women ultimately strengthens families and communities.
“Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When individuals, organisations and communities give women and young girls the opportunities and support they deserve, the whole community thrives,” the foundation stated.

AHF urged stakeholders to move beyond promises and implement practical measures that would guarantee a healthier, more equitable future for women and girls.