WELA Advocates for Women's Rights on International Women's Day

On International Women’s Day, the Women Empower Legal Aid (WELA), chaired by Funmi Falana, urged for immediate action to enhance women's rights and maternal health in Nigeria. In a statement issued on Saturday, Falana highlighted the importance of enforcing laws that protect women and girls, particularly in the context of reproductive and maternal health rights.

She noted that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees equal rights for all citizens, regardless of sex, and stressed the need for justice to transform rights from mere words into real power. WELA pointed out that women currently hold only 64% of the legal rights enjoyed by men and warned of the ongoing challenges, including violence and discrimination.

The organization also drew attention to the National Health Insurance Authority's announcement of a free caesarean section program starting on April 18, 2025, urging full implementation and reporting of any refusals by hospitals. Falana reiterated that maternal healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and called for increased awareness and legal support for women facing domestic abuse and other forms of violence.