Media professionals, journalists and social media influencers in Gombe State have pledged to intensify advocacy for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), as part of renewed efforts to combat stigma, gender-based violence and discrimination across communities.
The commitment followed a quarterly engagement meeting held on February 22, 2026, convened by Jhpiego in partnership with Kishimi Shelter and Care Foundation, with support from Johns Hopkins University.
Speaking during the session, the Field Officer, Josephine Ogenyi, said the meeting was aimed at strengthening the capacity of media actors to report accurately, ethically and responsibly on SRHR issues, while amplifying anti-stigma messaging within their communities.
She explained that the quarterly engagement brought together journalists to enhance reporting on SRHR-related matters, media professionals to develop culturally sensitive and impactful messaging, and social media influencers to broaden the reach of anti-stigma campaigns.
“Our goal is to empower media practitioners to serve as SRHR champions within their communities and help dismantle harmful stereotypes, stigma and discrimination affecting vulnerable populations,” Ogenyi said.
She disclosed that the engagement forms part of a pilot initiative titled Advancing Integrated Health Services Delivery for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and Communicable Diseases, an eight-month project being implemented across three local government areas in Gombe State; Gombe, Akko and Kaltungo.
According to her, the intervention covers 15 primary healthcare facilities — five in each of the selected LGAs.
In Gombe LGA, the supported facilities are Pantami PHC, Tudu Wada PHC, Town Maternity PHC, Kumbiya-Kumbiya PHC and the Family Support Clinic.
In Kaltungo LGA, the facilities include Gujuba PHC, Kalorgu PHC, A.T. Shamaki PHC, Ture PHC and Sabon Layi Awak PHC.
In Akko LGA, the project is being implemented at Kashere PHC, Pindiga PHC, Tumu PHC, Panda PHC and Kumo PHC.
Ogenyi noted that advocacy and sensitisation activities had already commenced across the three LGAs and the 15 health facilities, with active participation from critical stakeholders.
She said the project team is collaborating with Ward Development Committees, faith-based organisations, traditional rulers, PHC coordinators, Mother-to-Mother groups, Fathers for Good Health initiatives and other community structures to drive grassroots awareness and service uptake.
The project prioritises increased utilisation of antenatal care (ANC) services, improved reporting and support for gender-based violence (GBV) cases, access to sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment, expanded HIV services and cervical cancer screening.
“We are intensifying awareness campaigns on early ANC attendance, prompt reporting of GBV cases, HIV testing and cervical cancer screening. Women and adolescent girls are encouraged to visit the supported PHCs for screening and other essential health services,” Ogenyi added.
Participants at the meeting also reaffirmed their commitment to using their platforms to disseminate accurate information and counter misinformation surrounding SRHR and communicable diseases.
Jhpiego, an international non-profit organisation specialising in reproductive health, maternal and child health, and family planning, is leading the intervention aimed at strengthening integrated health service delivery and improving health outcomes among vulnerable populations in Gombe State.
