by Justin Ngong, Communications Officer, FP2030 North, West, and Central Africa Regional Hub-Abuja Nigeria

Nigeria Health Watch, a non-governmental organization, continues to play a critical role in raising awareness and deepening public understanding of pressing health issues across the country. In March, the group once again demonstrated its commitment to transformative advocacy by hosting a Celebrating Womanhood Art Gala, which combined creativity and activism to spotlight the urgent need for quality maternal health care.

This year’s gala served as more than just an exhibition of artistic expression—it was a rallying cry for change. The event highlighted how storytelling through art can amplify women’s voices and bring attention to the systemic gaps in maternal health. The gala aligned closely with the mission of FP2030: building a world where everyone, everywhere has the power and information they need to make informed decisions about pregnancy.

Margaret Bolaji, FP2030’s Adolescent and Youth Manager for North, West, and Central Africa, highlighted the “Made Possible by Family Planning” campaign. She shared the campaign’s vision in three ambitious objectives:

• Mobilize $1 billion in new commitments and funding for family planning.
• Elevate new leaders and high-profile influencers to spark transformative change.
• Reignite global momentum and reframe the family planning narrative.

A moving video by Ms. Omoyemi Akerele, a fashion industry entrepreneur and advocate, illustrated how access to family planning was pivotal in shaping her journey. Her story struck a chord with many in the audience prompting an outpouring of interest to share personal testimonies from community leaders, business moguls, and youth advocates who credited family planning as a key enabler in their personal and professional lives.

The Made Possible by Family Planning campaign emerged as a unifying force—reminding everyone that family planning is not merely a health intervention, but a fundamental human right that enables people, especially women, to live with dignity, pursue their dreams, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

As the Made Possible by Family Planning campaign gains momentum, it is clear that the future of family planning in Nigeria and beyond is brighter when driven by bold vision, personal stories, and collective action.