Experts Highlight Barriers to Contraceptive Access for Women in Nigeria
Despite the availability of contraceptives in Nigeria, many women face significant barriers to accessing family planning services, according to reproductive health experts. Issues such as cost, provider bias, and misinformation hinder women's ability to make informed reproductive choices.
The Abuja Times
Reproductive health stakeholders in Nigeria are raising alarm over the challenges women and girls face in accessing contraceptive services, despite claims of sufficient stock on pharmacy shelves. Experts at a recent forum marking the 2026 World Contraception Day emphasized that genuine access to family planning goes beyond mere availability of contraceptive commodities.
Dr. Moriam Jagun, Executive Director of the Centre for Bridging Health Gaps, stressed the need for a comprehensive understanding of what access entails. "It is critical that we stop equating the availability of contraceptives with genuine access. Many women are still unable to obtain these services due to a myriad of barriers, including cost, stockouts, provider bias, stigma, and misinformation," she stated.
During the event, which convened members of the Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria (NRHJN), Jagun urged journalists to investigate and expose these barriers. She highlighted how these obstacles not only limit access but also perpetuate cycles of misinformation surrounding reproductive health. "We need to empower women and young people to make informed choices about their reproductive health," she added.
The theme of the World Contraception Day forum, “No Barriers, Just Choices: Contraceptive Access Now!”, underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure that all women, regardless of their socio-economic status, can access family planning services without hindrance. Stakeholders are calling for increased awareness and advocacy to dismantle the barriers that prevent women from exercising their reproductive rights.
Share this article with your network
Broadcast directly to WhatsApp communities and news circles.
The Abuja Morning Dispatch
Get the capital's most important political investigations, cabinet decisions, and economic intelligence delivered to your inbox every morning.
About The Abuja Times
Super Admin & Lead Director
Related Dispatches in News
Military Operations Result in Eight Suspected Terrorists Neutralized and Three Abductees Rescued
In a coordinated military operation across Katsina, Kaduna, and Zamfara, troops successfully neutralized eight suspected terrorists and rescued three individuals previously abducted. The operations also led to the recovery of firearms and motorcycles, enhancing regional security efforts.
Tragic Assassination of Sheikh Masussuka Shakes Katsina Community
Sheikh Masussuka, a prominent Islamic cleric, was shot dead outside his home in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, on Monday night. His murder raises serious concerns about the safety of religious leaders amid rising violence linked to religious extremism in the region.
Delta State Raises Retirement Age for Healthcare Workers
In a significant move to enhance the healthcare workforce, Delta State Governor Oborevwori has announced an extension of the retirement age for clinical health workers. This decision comes in response to requests from professional associations, aiming to retain experienced personnel in the sector.