Lagos, Nigeria , In a dynamic two-day workshop held on June 22 and 23, 2025, ahead of the Lagos State Local Government Election, young women political organisers and gender inclusion advocates gathered at the Young Women Political Organising Lab. The event was organised by Yiaga Africa in partnership with Willan Global and the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), through GIZ, aiming to foster greater participation of young women in Nigeria’s political process.
The workshop attracted a diverse group of participants passionate about ensuring gender inclusion within political spaces. One of the notable participants was Dr. Yewande Omikunle, Founder of African Skilled Youth Advocacy for Sustainable Development. She captivated the audience by emphasising that the role of women in society complements, rather than disregards, the relevance of men. Dr. Omikunle highlighted the complexities of Nigerian politics, explaining that “politics in Nigeria is not done on a platter of gold; someone, somewhere must have paid the price.”
As Nigeria approaches its general elections, initiatives like this lab serve as critical ways to empower young women, broaden political participation, and push for systemic change that ensures equal opportunities for all genders.
With increasing advocacy and collective efforts, stakeholders aim to see more young women take on leadership positions, transforming Nigeria’s political landscape into a more inclusive and equitable arena for the future.
Improving Primary Health Care Services in Nigeria: A Call to Action Led by Dr. Yewande Omikunle
Nigeria’s Primary Health Care (PHC) system, the foundation of healthcare delivery across the country, faces significant challenges that hinder access to quality medical services for many Nigerians. Despite policies like the National Health Policy (1988), the National Health Act (2014), and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), PHC centres frequently suffer from poor infrastructure, underfunding, shortages of skilled medical personnel, and inadequate modern medical equipment.
Dr. Yewande Omikunle, founder of African Skilled Youth Advocates, has been at the forefront of efforts to improve PHC services by introducing sophisticated medical equipment and advocating for sustainable development in healthcare. Her work underscores the critical need to modernise and equip primary health centres, making healthcare more accessible and effective at the community level.
Key Problems in Nigeria’s Primary Health Care System
Infrastructure Deficits: Many PHC centres are dilapidated, lack basic amenities, and do not have sufficient or modern medical equipment to provide essential healthcare services.
Funding Gaps: Nigeria’s healthcare budget remains critically low compared to recommended levels. Although the BHCPF has contributed significant funds, many PHCs remain underfunded, with fragmented financing and inefficient utilization of available resources.
Shortage of Skilled Personnel: The ongoing brain drain of healthcare professionals seeking better working conditions abroad leaves many facilities understaffed and unable to deliver quality care.
