In a strategic move to safeguard the health of women and youths, community leaders and health experts have called for intensified sensitization on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) to eliminate the scourge of unsafe abortions in Nigeria, reports ITREALMS.
The call was the centerpiece of a one-day community engagement themed "Tapestry: Towards Eliminating Unsafe Abortion," held at the DA Executive Event Centre, Agege. The initiative was supported by Empath Alliance and The Generation Initiative for Women and Youth Network (GIWYN).
Mrs. Abiola Ajani-Ariyo, Executive Director of the BAYWO Foundation, noted that the engagement was designed to bridge the gap in reproductive health knowledge. She emphasized that unsafe abortion remains a preventable cause of maternal health complications, often fueled by lack of information and social stigma.
"We must increase awareness on the health risks and social implications of unsafe abortion," Ariyo stated. She urged stakeholders and community leaders to become advocates for accurate SRHR information, stressing that access to quality contraception and support services is vital for reducing maternal mortality.
Representing Mrs. Oyebola Otokiti, a Family Planning Provider at Agege Local Government, Mr. Chinedu Nwoadazie addressed the biological realities of adolescence. He noted that curiosity about sex is a natural part of physical development that must be met with guidance rather than silence.
"Many in our community view sex education as taboo," Nwoadazie observed. "However, when parents refuse to talk, social media and misinformed peers fill the void. We need a shift toward open communication and education rather than just discipline."
He further enjoined parents to debunk misconceptions regarding family planning, re-labeling it as a tool for "life planning" to ensure young girls can reach their full potential without the hurdle of unintended pregnancies.
Echoing these sentiments, the Health Education Officer for Agege Local Government, Samuel Owoleke, warned against leaving sex education solely to the formal school system.
"Parents must start these conversations early to prevent their children from being wrongly influenced," Owoleke said. He called for increased youth awareness regarding puberty and body changes, advocating for a balanced approach that includes abstinence and safe practices.
The event concluded with a unanimous call for sustained community sensitization and stronger partnerships between the government, NGOs, and traditional leaders. Participants agreed that by fostering a supportive community structure, women and girls can make informed decisions that lead to safer and healthier outcomes.
The program was well-attended by various stakeholders, including grassroots organizers and community influencers committed to advocacy in the Agege locality.
Gbemi Omotoso/Editor
Mrs. Abiola Ajani-Ariyo, Executive Director of the BAYWO Foundation, noted that the engagement was designed to bridge the gap in reproductive health knowledge. She emphasized that unsafe abortion remains a preventable cause of maternal health complications, often fueled by lack of information and social stigma.
"We must increase awareness on the health risks and social implications of unsafe abortion," Ariyo stated. She urged stakeholders and community leaders to become advocates for accurate SRHR information, stressing that access to quality contraception and support services is vital for reducing maternal mortality.
Representing Mrs. Oyebola Otokiti, a Family Planning Provider at Agege Local Government, Mr. Chinedu Nwoadazie addressed the biological realities of adolescence. He noted that curiosity about sex is a natural part of physical development that must be met with guidance rather than silence.
"Many in our community view sex education as taboo," Nwoadazie observed. "However, when parents refuse to talk, social media and misinformed peers fill the void. We need a shift toward open communication and education rather than just discipline."
He further enjoined parents to debunk misconceptions regarding family planning, re-labeling it as a tool for "life planning" to ensure young girls can reach their full potential without the hurdle of unintended pregnancies.
Echoing these sentiments, the Health Education Officer for Agege Local Government, Samuel Owoleke, warned against leaving sex education solely to the formal school system.
The event concluded with a unanimous call for sustained community sensitization and stronger partnerships between the government, NGOs, and traditional leaders. Participants agreed that by fostering a supportive community structure, women and girls can make informed decisions that lead to safer and healthier outcomes.
The program was well-attended by various stakeholders, including grassroots organizers and community influencers committed to advocacy in the Agege locality.
Gbemi Omotoso/Editor
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