Introduction
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, it is crucial to reflect on the progress we have made and the challenges that persist in achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment, especially within Nigeria’s health sector. While strides have been made, there is still much work to be done to ensure inclusivity and equity for all.
A home where there is fairness and equality is a well-functioning family. Everyone gets their fair share, and no one feels left out or treated unfairly. In the healthcare world, this is about making sure everyone, men and women alike, gets the same chances and opportunities. Some people imagine that everything is fine and fair for everyone in Nigeria, but that’s not always the case. In a family, if one person feels ignored or treated unfairly, it affects everyone’s well-being. When we make sure there is fairness and equality in healthcare, it means women can step up and be leaders just like men. They do not have to fight extra hard or face extra obstacles just because of their gender.
My point is, when it comes to inclusion, we cannot afford to overlook the importance of fairness and equality for everyone involved. I believe homes with two leaders, where both partners share responsibilities and make decisions together, serve as strong examples of fairness and equality. Just like in a well-functioning family, where everyone contributes and is treated with respect, healthcare should be a place where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities and access to quality care. Just as both partners in a household work together for the common good, we need to ensure that everyone works together to create a system that works for everyone.
The Path to Inclusive Leadership
Sergey Brin and Larry Page, the guys who started Google, changed how we find things online. Their story shows why fairness and equality matter, not only on the internet, but also in places like healthcare. Just like they made sure everyone can find what they need, we should make sure everyone gets the same opportunities. That means women too. In the same way Sergey and Larry wanted everyone to have a fair shot online, we want everyone to have the same shot at good healthcare.
Like a family where everyone should be treated with fairness and equality, we need to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, has equal access and opportunities for leadership roles. This means breaking down barriers and biases that hold women back from fully participating and contributing to the healthcare sector.
Girls need to understand this and recognize their worth. I want girls to read this and realize that they have every right to dream big and aim high. Just like boys, they deserve equal opportunities to pursue their passions and become leaders. We can create a world where every girl feels empowered to make a difference by breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of inclusivity. We should inspire the next generation of female leaders in healthcare and show them that their voices matter.
I have close friends who understand why it is so important for everyone to be treated fairly. They see the hurdles women face and know things are not always equal. Like I mentioned earlier, we have got to make sure everyone, irrespective of gender, has the same shot at good healthcare and leadership roles. We need to break down those barriers holding women back and make sure everyone’s voice is heard.
Everyone has something valuable to bring to the table, so let us make sure everyone has a chance. We should work together to create a system that is fair and equal for all. Just like in a good family, when everyone feels respected and valued, we all thrive. That is the kind of healthcare world we want – one where people matter, no matter who they are.
The Importance of Gender Equality
Gender equality is essential for the effective functioning of systems. Women make up a significant portion of both healthcare providers and patients, yet they continue to face barriers that limit their access to quality care and leadership opportunities. This not only hampers their well-being but also undermines the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery.
In developing countries, empowering women economically can have a profound impact on poverty reduction and overall economic development. The World Bank reports that closing the gender gap in employment could increase GDP per capita by 20% in Sub-Saharan Africa.
To address gender disparities, we must first acknowledge and confront the root causes. This includes challenging traditional gender roles, dismantling discriminatory policies and practices, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect. It is imperative for stakeholders at all levels, from policymakers to healthcare providers, to prioritize gender equality in their decision-making processes and actions.
Promoting Inclusivity in Leadership
One area where gender disparities are particularly pronounced is in leadership. Despite women comprising a significant portion of the workforce, they are vastly underrepresented in leadership positions. To promote inclusivity, we must actively work to break down barriers to advancement, provide mentorship and support to aspiring female leaders, and implement policies that promote gender diversity in leadership.
Women’s inclusion in the workforce has been instrumental in driving economic growth globally. Studies have shown that increasing women’s participation in the labor market can significantly boost GDP. For example, McKinsey Global Institute estimates that advancing gender equality could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025.
Achieving gender equality in Nigeria requires collective action and commitment from all stakeholders. Here are some actionable steps we can take:
- Implement gender-sensitive policies and practices within organizations, including equal pay for equal work and flexible work arrangements.
- Provide training and development opportunities specifically tailored to women, including leadership development programs.
- Create mentorship and sponsorship programs to support the advancement of women into leadership roles.
- Advocate for gender-responsive policies at the national and local levels, including increased funding for women’s health initiatives and research.
Foster a culture of inclusivity and respect within organizations, where all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute.
Conclusion
As leaders in the private sector, we have a responsibility to drive positive change and champion gender equality in Nigeria. We can create a more equitable and sustainable future for all by taking concrete actions to address gender disparities and promote inclusivity. Let us seize this opportunity to make a difference and build a system that truly works for everyone.
About the Contributor
Ota Akhigbe is a results-driven executive leader with 15 years of experience across Healthcare, Nonprofit, Telecommunications, and Financial Services industries. She is recognized among the Top 60 African Women in Development for her impactful contributions to community transformation and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals. Currently serving as the Head of Memberships and Partnerships at the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria, Ota applies an entrepreneurial mindset to develop and revitalize global partnerships, securing substantial funding.
