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The need for women to have economic means, access to quality healthcare, make informed decisions, and advocate for policies to prioritise their well-being came to the forefront at the third edition of Celebrating Womanhood Art Gala 2025.
The event which was organised by Nigeria Health Watch with support from the National Gallery of Art brought together notable women from all works of life.
Addressing the gathering, the Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch, Vivianne Ihekweazu noted that maternal health was an issue that affects everyone as It touches families, communities, and nations.
”As of today, Nigeria continues to record one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with over 1,000 maternal deaths for every 100,000 live births and far off from the UN Sustainable Development Goal to reduce the global MMR to below 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.”
”This stark reality is a reminder of the work that remains to be done to ensure every woman has access to the care she needs to survive pregnancy and childbirth.”
According to Vivianne, ”Women who control economic assets can negotiate for better healthcare services, ensure their families have access to resources, and demand that their needs be addressed in both healthcare and policy settings.”
The Managing Director noted that women’s economic empowerment is the foundation for building a future where maternal health outcomes are improved, where maternal deaths are drastically reduced, and where women’s voices are no longer silenced or ignored.
” We are missing out on the incredible potential that women bring to the table, potential that, if fully realised, could accelerate our progress in achieving better maternal health outcomes, and indeed, in every sphere of life.”
She said the event was an occasion that brings together the power of art, advocacy, and the shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of women everywhere.
”This year’s theme, “Her Strength in Every Story: Creative Expressions for Women’s Health”, serves as a powerful reminder of the pivotal role women have always played in shaping the world around us,” she added.
In a message to the event, the Director General, National Gallery of Art, Mr. Ahmed Sodangi said the theme was apt because it creates a link between Art and Womanhood, with the aim of harnessing the power of art to beam spotlight on maternal healthcare.
Represented by the Director, Educational Services, National Art Gallery, Janefrances Gbujie. noted that there are available fact which shows that maternal health was one of the key indicators for monitoring the health of any society.
”Research has shown that art-based interventions during pregnancy and post-partum periods positively impact on maternal health and wellbeing by providing a platform for, Emotional expression , Social connection, Stress reduction and Potentially improving mental outcomes.”
‘‘This relationship between art and health underscores the Importance of today’s event. the impressive array of artworks displayed in this hall, show cases not only the enduring spirit of Nigeria’s creative industry, but also reveals the power of art in raising awareness and driving social change.”
Janefrances Gbujie who added that the National Art Gallery was proud to be associated with the initiative, pledged to continue to collaborate and support the promotion of art as a veritable tool for social advocacy.
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