Nigeria Health Watch’s 3rd Celebrating Womanhood Art Gala for Mar 28 in Abuja

Nigeria Health Watch,  a not-for-profit health communication and advocacy organization, will host the third edition of its Celebrating Womanhood Art Gala on March 28, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria as part of activities commemorating 2025 International Women’s Month which aims to highlight the intersection of art, health, and gender equity while celebrating the contributions of women in various fields of human endeavor.

Themed: “Her Strength in Every Story: Creative Expressions for Women’s Health,” this year’s event will explore the power of art in amplifying women’s health issues and advocating for equitable healthcare systems. The art gala aims to foster meaningful conversations, inspire action, and drive policy changes that prioritize women’s health and well-being.

The event prides itself as a platform to raise awareness on maternal health issues, bringing together stakeholders from diverse sectors to advocate for policies that improve healthcare for women and promote strategic partnerships for lasting solutions. The event is organized in collaboration with the National Gallery of Art (NGA) and the Female Artists Association of Nigeria (FEAAN), featuring a curated selection of artworks that reflect the challenges and triumphs of women’s health.

Vivianne Ihekweazu, Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch, in a press statement ahead of the event, highlights the role of art in transforming complex health challenges into compelling narratives that inspire dialogue and action.

“Art has a unique ability to express what words often cannot. Through creative expression, we highlight the link between a woman’s empowerment and her ability to make informed health choices. This event is not only a celebration of women but also an advocacy tool for better access to healthcare, ultimately improving maternal health outcomes,” said Ihekweazu

According to Nigeria Health Watch, maternal mortality remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births, one of the highest rates globally. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing maternal mortality to fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030 requires an annual reduction of at least 20.3%. This reality underscores the urgent need for stronger investments in maternal healthcare.

The 2025 edition of Celebrating Womanhood Art Gala will offer both physical and virtual participation, enabling a wider audience to engage through the Nigeria Health Watch website and social media platforms. Through continued collaboration and engagement, the art gala seeks to drive impactful conversations that translate into meaningful healthcare improvements for women in Nigeria and beyond.