The Media Health and Rights (MHR) Initiative of Nigeria and the Lawyers Alert have decried high Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB) prevalence in Benue.
The groups expressed the concern at a virtual news briefing monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Makurdi.
President of Lawyers Alert, Mr Rommy Mom, said Benue was still struggling with 4.5 per cent HIV prevalence and a significant TB burden.
Mom stated that the situation was exacerbated by HIV-TB co-infection rates exceeding 25 per cent.
The president emphasised that 10 per cent of reported TB cases in Nigeria were from the state, adding that malaria remained endemic, particularly affecting children under five years and pregnant women.
He said that there was an urgent need to address gender disparities in TB, HIV, and malaria responses for women.
Mom added that a comprehensive situational analysis conducted under the Gender Equality Fund (GEF) project, the groups uncovered gender-related barriers hindering women’s access to healthcare services for TB, HIV and malaria in the state.
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The president said that the report underscored systemic inequalities, cultural norms, economic constraints, and policy gaps that continued to obstruct women’s right to equitable healthcare.
“Benue has consistently recorded one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in Nigeria, with co-infection of TB further complicating the situation.
“Additionally, malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death, particularly among pregnant women and children under five.
“Despite ongoing interventions, barriers such as stigma, gender inequality, and limited healthcare infrastructure continue to hinder progress.
“This analysis identifies critical policy gaps, gender disparities in healthcare access, and the urgent need for community-driven advocacy to address these challenges,” he said.
According to him, the findings emphasise the necessity of strengthening healthcare systems and enhancing community engagement to tackle stigma and discrimination.
Mom said women in Benue faced significant challenges in accessing healthcare due to patriarchal norms, economic dependency, and cultural beliefs.
He pointed out that stigma and discrimination associated with TB and HIV discouraged women from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment.
“Lawyers Alert and the Media Health and Rights Initiative call on the Benue State Government, healthcare providers, civil society organisations, and international partners to prioritise gender-transformative approaches in healthcare delivery.
“By addressing the systemic and cultural barriers identified in this report, we can create a more equitable and resilient healthcare system that ensures no one is left behind, he said.
Mrs Alu Azege, Executive Director, The Media Health and Rights Initiative of Nigeria, said their aim was to collaborate with civil society groups, NGOs, and government agencies to amplify voices for social change.
Azege said MHR uses media platforms to raise awareness, challenge harmful norms, and promote gender equality and human rights.
“As a media partner in the GEF project, MHR plays a crucial role in disseminating information, engaging communities, and driving advocacy efforts to address gender-related barriers in healthcare access.
“Through its innovative communication strategies, MHR ensures that the voices of women and vulnerable populations are heard, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society,” she said.
