Osogbo:The Olabode Youth and Women Initiative (OYAWN), a non-governmental organization, has called for stakeholder support to enhance women’s access to sexual and reproductive health information and services in Osun. This appeal was made by Mr. Moroof Olabode, the Executive Director of OYAWN, during the organization’s third quarterly dialogue with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other community influencers.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the meeting, themed ‘Advancing Safe Abortion Policy Reform Through Stakeholders’ Engagement in Osun State,’ emphasized the need for women to have accurate and accessible information to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, reducing the risk of complications from unsafe abortion practices.
Mr. Olabode urged community leaders to leverage their influence to foster positive attitudes towards reproductive health and ensure women have access to appropriate healthcare services. He highlighted the role of civil society organizations, the media, community associations, and advocacy groups in bridging the gap between communities and healthcare providers through education, advocacy, and service delivery.
He also encouraged community leaders to address cultural beliefs, misconceptions, and harmful practices that may deter women from seeking medical care, emphasizing the importance of informed and safe practices for maintaining community health.
An OYAWN facilitator, Mr. Shola Oluwafemi, further urged stakeholders to tackle misinformation and misconceptions that could expose women to avoidable health risks. He stressed that traditional myths and religious beliefs should not hinder access to modern healthcare services and called for ongoing advocacy and stronger healthcare systems.
The meeting was attended by persons with disabilities, NGO representatives, religious leaders, and media professionals.