ASABA/Nigeria:
The United Nations Women (UN Women) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Association of Women Living with HIV in Nigeria (ASWHAN) in accessing essential healthcare, social protection services, and increased participation in governance and community development processes.
Speaking during a two-day advocacy training organised in Asaba for ASWHAN members from 18 Southern states, Mrs. Patience Ekeoba, Acting Deputy Country Representative of UN Women Nigeria, emphasized the urgent need for increased domestic funding from government institutions, the private sector, foundations, and charitable organisations to support the needs and rights of women living with HIV.
Ekeoba stated that women living with HIV in Nigeria continue to face significant challenges, including stigma, discrimination, and limited access to basic services. She noted that the training aimed to strengthen the capacity of participants to carry out targeted, effective advocacy using the newly developed Community-Led Advocacy Toolkit by UN Women. “The toolkit provides a practical framework for grassroots-level advocacy. Participants are expected to develop state-specific action plans with clear targets and outcomes,” she said.
The Delta State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Princess Pat Ajudua, represented by Dr. Faith Okpohworho, applauded the initiative, stressing that advocacy is a necessity in bridging the gap between policy and practice. “This training is vital. It aims to sharpen your skills, strengthen your voice, and position you as agents of transformation in your communities,” she noted.
The event featured interactive sessions facilitated by advocacy expert Martin Falana, and culminated in the inauguration of the Delta State Advocacy Committee. Participants, including ASWHAN members like Mrs. Dorcas Owhojero, praised UN Women for the initiative, saying the experience boosted their confidence and advocacy capacity. “This training has afforded me another opportunity to sharpen my advocacy skills,” Owhojero said.
NAN reports that the highlight of the occasion was the inauguration of Delta State Advocacy Committee.
