Context

PATH sought to understand how women's perspectives and lived experiences were being incorporated into the research and development of women's health products in Nigeria. There was a recognised gap between the design of health research processes and the voices of the women those products are meant to serve.

Challenge

The work required a rigorous assessment across a complex stakeholder landscape to identify the specific points in the research and development pipeline where women's voices were absent or underrepresented, and to translate those findings into advocacy recommendations that could be acted on.

Approach

We conducted a desk review of the policies, processes and structures shaping health research in Nigeria, with particular attention to women's health research — including ethics review committees, clinical trial community advisory boards, advocacy groups and other decision-making structures.

We identified and classified key stakeholders across the women's health research ecosystem, developed interview guides and conducted in-depth key informant interviews. Findings were analysed and synthesised into a presentation setting out specific advocacy opportunities and strategies, then tested and refined through a validation workshop.

Outcome

The assessment produced a clear map of where women's voices were integrated or missing in health research in Nigeria, and identified targeted advocacy opportunities. PATH received a validated set of recommendations and a strategic advocacy framework to strengthen women's participation in product development.

Sustainability

The advocacy recommendations provide a foundation for PATH and its partners to institutionalise the integration of women's voices in health research processes in Nigeria.