Stakeholders in Bauchi State have called for increased investment in education and healthcare as well as stronger protection for women and adolescent girls.
The call was made at an event to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day organised by the Bauchi State Government in partnership with Global Affairs Canada through the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Bauchi Field Office.
The Executive Chairman of the State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, stressed the need to protect women and girls from all forms of violence, noting that societies that undermine women’s contributions risk slowing their own development.
Also speaking, the Chief of the UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, urged government and stakeholders to ensure equal access for women and girls to healthcare, education and economic opportunities.
The Director General of the State Sustainable Development Goals Office, Mrs. Lydia Shehu, said empowering women and girls and guaranteeing their basic rights are critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 5 and 10.
Some adolescent girls at the event also called for safe spaces in healthcare and educational facilities to enable them make informed decisions about their wellbeing.
