Stakeholders in Nigeria’s health sector have been urged to take deliberate steps towards creating more inclusive workplaces by promoting gender equality, strengthening women’s leadership and implementing policies that support work-life balance.

The call was made by gender advocate and Executive Director of H-Termar International Training and Consult Associates, Mrs Olaide Oyerinde Ajiboye, during the 22nd North Central Zonal Conference, Women Workshop and Award Presentation organised by the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Conference Hall in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Speaking on the theme, “Rights, Justice, Action: Advancing Women in the Health Sector and Trade Union,” Ajiboye said achieving gender equality requires more than policy statements, insisting that stakeholders must translate commitments into practical actions that improve opportunities for women.

She advocated family-friendly workplace policies, stronger mentorship programmes for female health workers, increased representation of women in management and decision-making positions, regular gender sensitivity training and strict monitoring of compliance with International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

According to her, “Rights must translate into justice through deliberate action. Every stakeholder has a responsibility to create an inclusive workplace. Together, we can build a healthier, more productive and equitable health sector.”

Ajiboye maintained that empowering women within the health workforce and trade unions would not only improve productivity but also strengthen the overall healthcare system and promote fairness across the sector.