Stakeholders Agree Adolescents Health Is Key To Nigeria’s Development

Stakeholders in Nigeria have agreed that adolescent health is key to Nigeria’s development. This was disclosed at the 2022 National and International Adolescent Health Week (IAHW),in Abuja.

The World Health Organization Country Representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, said that there’s the need to renew commitment to the wellbeing of adolescents for a better future.

He said that the commemoration of the week gives the government, partners and other stakeholders the opportunity to improve the health of adolescents in Nigeria.

Similarly, the Chief of Health UNICEF, Dr. Eduardo Celades, said that adolescents need to have a voice in policies and be given the opportunity to be young.

The Nigerian minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, says westernization has greatly affected the youths. He said that there is the need for parents and adolescents to have conversation on how to develop the new generation for the survival of the country.

He said that the ministry was therefore advocating and making all efforts to strengthen effective coordination of adolescent health programs nationwide.

The Minister of State Health, Dr Adeleke Olorunnimbe Mamora, in his remarks said that to grow and develop in good health, adolescents need information, including age-appropriate comprehensive sexuality education; opportunities to develop life skills; health services that are acceptable, equitable, appropriate and effective; and safe and supportive environments.

The Director Family Health, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Salma Kolo, said that the celebration was important because it affords Nigeria the opportunity to again inform Nigerians on what the Ministry has done and is doing to achieve the desirable health needs of special people in society.

She said that the week-long commemoration would be filled with activities emphasizing the call to action which highlights adolescent health needs.

The week-long participatory event is for stakeholders working in the adolescent health space to redouble efforts towards adolescent health and inclusion.