Esther Salifu
The Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON) is calling for the integration of specific budget line for family planning in the Federal Capital Territory.
HEFRON Program Manager Dr. Opeyemi Adeosun made the call during a media roundtable for health Journalists in Abuja.
According to Adeosun, the absence of a dedicated budget line for family planning in the FCT has resulted in lack of access to essential services, contributing to high fertility rates and maternal mortality.
He said: “We are advocating for a budget line for family planning in the FCT because it is essential for the health and well-being of women and families,”
“It is the duty of the government to provide access to quality family planning services, and a dedicated budget line in the Federal Capital Territory.
Dr. Adeosun noted that the lack of access to family planning services has severe consequences, particularly for women and girls.
“A lot of adolescents and teenage girls are dying because of unwanted pregnancy.
They are leaders of tomorrow, and we cannot afford to lose them. The FCT Minister must ensure that family planning is prioritized in the 2025 budget.”
Speaking further, he called for media collaboration in advocating for family planning services in the FCT.
“We need the media to educate the masses, policymakers, and stakeholders about the importance of family planning,”
“We must work together to ensure that family planning services are accessible and affordable for all.”
“We are advocating for a budget line for family planning in the FCT because it is essential for the health and well-being of women and families”.
Communication Consultant for HERFON, Bukola Afeni added that while abstinence is important, it is not a realistic solution for many young people.
“We need to provide young people with the right information and knowledge about family planning, so they can make informed decisions about their health and well-being,” she said.
The participants in a group discussion reached a consensus on the need for accurate information, education, and awareness about family planning.
HERFON, with support from Rise Up, a US-based organization, has been working to raise awareness about the importance of family planning in the FCT.
