Women Living with HIV in Nasarawa Demand Stronger Legal Protection, Inclusivity.
By Chris Nyamtu
Women living with HIV and AIDS in Nasarawa State have urged the government at all levels to establish an effective mechanism for enforcing laws that safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups.
The Chairperson of the Association of Women Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria Nasarawa, State chapter, Mrs. Rahab Irmiya, made the appeal during a symposium in Lafia to commemorate International Women’s Day.
Call for Inclusivity and Stronger Institutions
The symposium brought together various women’s groups, including the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), the Association of Women Living with HIV and AIDS, and Women with Disabilities, to foster collaboration and advocate for better opportunities in nutrition, health, and economic empowerment.
Mrs. Rahab Irmiya emphasized the need to strengthen government agencies to ensure equal participation for women living with HIV.
“We cannot talk about inclusivity if vulnerable groups, especially women living with HIV, are left out of decision-making processes,” she said. “Our voices must be heard when policies on improved nutrition and healthcare are being formulated.”
Government’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
Governor Abdullahi Sule, in his keynote address, praised the resilience of women in shaping the economy. He reaffirmed the state’s dedication to creating opportunities in technology, science education, and entrepreneurship.
“Women play a crucial role in building a sustainable economy. Our government remains committed to ensuring they have access to the resources needed to thrive,” Governor Sule stated.
The Role of Capacity Building
A representative of the Catalyzing Strengthened Policy Action for Healthy Diets and Resilience (CASCADE) programme, Mr Tolu Bolujuko, highlighted capacity building and collective commitment as critical elements in women’s empowerment.
“Empowering women requires more than just policies—it demands action, training, and collaboration to equip them with the right skills,” Bolujuko said.
The Need for Greater Protection
One of the panellists, Mrs Mary Asheneye, and NAWOJ State Chairperson, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, stressed the importance of protecting women, especially in light of emerging trends in politics and governance.
The symposium, organized by the Nasarawa State Ministry of Women Affairs and Humanitarian Services in partnership with CASCADE, featured paper presentations and panel discussions focused on this year’s theme: “Accelerate Action.”
The event underscored the urgent need for practical steps toward gender inclusivity and policy reforms that uplift vulnerable groups.
