Nigeria Signs MoU to Enhance Healthcare for Intersex Individuals

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Health, has partnered with civil society organizations to enhance inclusive healthcare policies for intersex individuals. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed over the weekend in Abuja, formalizing a partnership that began in 2023.

The initiative aims to improve and protect access to healthcare for persons born with variations in sexual characteristics. The agreement includes the unveiling of a policy toolkit designed to guide healthcare institutions in adopting inclusive practices.

John Ovuoray, Director of the Department of Family Health, represented the Ministry of Health, emphasizing the importance of mainstreaming intersex issues in healthcare policies. He noted that low awareness of intersex issues contributes to stigma and misconceptions.

Obioma Chukwuik, Executive Director of Centre for Health Care Development, described the agreement as a milestone for the rights of intersex individuals in Nigeria. The event featured various stakeholders, including representatives from the National Human Rights Commission and healthcare professionals.