Osogbo, March 9, 2026 (NAN) The Osun government on Monday sensitized market women across major markets in Osogbo on reproductive health and self-worth in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
A team from the Ministry of Health and the Primary Healthcare Development Board visited Olaiya, Okafia, and Alekunwodo markets, educating women on their importance in society and the need to prioritize their reproductive health.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that both female and male condoms were distributed during the sensitization programme.
Speaking during the programme, the State Family Planning Coordinator, Mrs Ololade Abatan, said the awareness campaign was aimed at helping women understand their worth and rights in society.
Abatan said that although women’s rights, including sexual and reproductive rights, are documented, they are often not fully implemented.
“The essence of this awareness is to let our women know that they have rights and that they should seek justice to ensure those rights are implemented.
“Majorly, we are talking about sexual and reproductive rights and, more importantly, family planning.
“You know family planning allows a woman to remain in good health,” she said.
Abatan said family planning helps women avoid unplanned pregnancies, stay healthy, and remain productive.
Also speaking, the Adolescent Desk Officer of the Osun Primary Healthcare Board, Mrs Roseline Akinlabi, said the programme was designed to sensitize women and girls about their rights.
Akinlabi said that in line with the theme of the 2026 International Women’s Day, “Give to Gain”, women must be given opportunities to make the right choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health.
She added that girls should not be deprived of their rights, stressing the need to end female genital mutilation.
“So we are using this opportunity to sensitize men to support women and girls.
“We also want women to see themselves as important members of the community and to recognize that they have rights over their sexual and reproductive health,” she said.
Similarly, the Osun Reproductive Health Coordinator, Mrs Tolulope Agboire, said there was a need to empower women and girls in society.
Agboire said that in line with the theme of the celebration, something must be given before meaningful results can be achieved.
“If you don’t give, don’t expect any outcome.
“In essence, we need to empower our women and girls.
“We need to take care of them. If you educate the girl-child, you will gain in the future.
“That is the outcome you should expect. If you empower a woman, she will be able to support the family.
“Let us not marginalize our women and girls,” she said.
NAN reports that the programme was supported by Marie’s Stopes Nigeria(MSN), OYAWIN, The Challenge Initiative (TCI),among others.(NAN)
