By Amaka Madu
The Women Advocates Research and Documentation Center (WARDC) has called for strengthened accountability mechanisms to ensure wider access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services in Anambra State.
This was the focus of a roundtable meeting recently convened by the organization, which brought together government officials, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, observatory groups, academia, and development partners to review progress made in the implementation of SRHR policies in the state.
In her remarks, Jennifer Nwokedike, representing the Founding Director of WARDC, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, noted that the meeting was a demonstration of collective commitment to advancing the reproductive health and rights of women and adolescent girls. She explained that the project, “Changing the Law, Changing Lives,” supported by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), is being implemented across seven states in Nigeria, including Anambra, with the aim of promoting awareness, advocacy, and accountability in SRHR policies.
Reviewing key presentations from previous engagements, WARDC’s Senior Program Officer, Peace Etugbo, identified persisting challenges such as limited access to sexual health services, gaps in family planning, weak enforcement of the Violence Against Persons (VAP) law, and inadequate sensitization at the grassroots. She stressed the need for improved collaboration among stakeholders to address these barriers.
The Commissioner for Health in Anambra State, Dr. Afam Obidike, and the Director of Public Health, Dr. Afam Anaeme, both expressed concern over Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rate. They commended WARDC’s ongoing interventions, noting that such initiatives complement government efforts in expanding access to reproductive health. Dr. Obidike urged Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to intensify awareness campaigns in rural communities where access remains most limited, while assuring them of the state’s continued partnership.
Also speaking, Prof. Ifeanyi Ezebialu, State Coordinator of the Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians of Nigeria, commended the state government’s achievements in reducing maternal deaths and improving access to fertility and family planning services.
Contributing on behalf of CSOs, Eucharia Onyemaobi of Zaram Foundation, who also serves as the state coordinator, called on young people to actively engage in ongoing programs aimed at curbing rape, internal migration, and mental health challenges among teenagers. She applauded WARDC for its partnership and advocated for more frequent stakeholder engagements to accelerate progress in SRHR delivery.
At the close of the meeting, stakeholders resolved to step down the training and knowledge gained to communities at the grassroots level. They emphasized that sustained collaboration, periodic reviews, and community-led advocacy are critical in ensuring that every woman and girl in Anambra State enjoys unhindered access to essential SRHR services and benefits.
