Advocates demand gender-responsive access to public information

Stakeholders in the legal, academic, and information sectors have called for more inclusive and gender-responsive approaches to public information access. During a conference in Lagos commemorating the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2026, organizers emphasized the need to address barriers faced by women and marginalized groups.

Media Rights Agenda (MRA) and the International Press Centre (IPC) hosted the event, which focused on the theme of upholding information integrity in the digital age. Speakers noted that women often face unique challenges in accessing information regarding sexual and reproductive health, maternal mortality, gender-based violence, and justice mechanisms.

Advocates urged civil society organizations and the media to move beyond mere awareness of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and instead monitor how public institutions respond to requests. There was a specific call for stronger implementation of the FOI Act to ensure that transparency and accountability processes are accessible to all underserved populations.