Media Right Agenda, (MRA) has called on federal and state governments in Nigeria to address challenges within the country’s information ecosystem that hinder women from fully accessing public information.
In a statement released in Lagos to mark International Women’s Day MRA Programme Officer Ayomide Eweje saıd access to information is essential for women’s empowerment and equality.
Ms Eweje noted that women cannot make informed decisions or fully exercise their rights if they are denied access to public information.
She explained that information plays an important role in improving women’s economic opportunities.
According to her, digital access enables women to explore entrepreneurship, expand business networks, and obtain financial support for small businesses.
She added that information networks can also help rural women overcome barriers caused by limited infrastructure and lack of knowledge.
MRA programs officer, stressed that access to reliable information is crucial in the health sector, particularly in areas such as reproductive health, safe childbirth, and family planning.
With the right information, women can make better health decisions and reduce risks such as maternal mortality and sexually transmitted infections.
Eweje further stated that access to information is necessary for women’s participation in democratic processes.
She explained that it enables women to contribute to public debates, demand accountability in the delivery of services such as healthcare, and make informed choices during elections.
“On the issue of safety, she said information helps survivors of abuse understand how to report crimes, seek medical care, and obtain legal assistance. She warned that the increasing use of digital platforms to harass women—including cyberbullying and manipulated media poses a growing threat to women’s participation online”.
According to her, online attacks and coordinated harassment against female journalists and civil society activists are discouraging many women from participating in digital discussions, thereby limiting their access to information and their ability to hold authorities accountable.
“Despite the importance of information access, Eweje said, many women in Nigeria still face barriers”
She therefore urged the federal and state governments, including the National Assembly, to take steps to guarantee women’s information rights.
She recommended that public institutions make gender-disaggregated data available, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, health, and education, to better reflect women’s experiences and needs.
Ms Eweje also called on government and security agencies to protect women in the digital space by prosecuting individuals who use technology to harass or silence them.
She emphasized that the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, should be applied to safeguard women rather than restrict legitimate expression.
Ms Eweje, reaffirmed MRA’s commitment to promoting an open society where every Nigerian woman can freely access information and participate in public life without fear or barriers.
