The federal government has raised concerns over the growing trend of the nations population, pledging support to implementation of fertility reduction initiatives.
Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, gave the indication at an event by the National Population Commission (NPC) to commemorate the 2022 World Population Day (WPD) in Abuja.
Represented by Dr Salma Anas-Kolo, the minister who affirmed the difficulty in achieving human capital development without fertility reduction,said measures are on by the ministry to ensure intensive monitoring and implementation of family planning services in the country.
Other strategies the minister added includes mobilisation of the private sector in the advancement of access to family planning commodities. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Population Commission NPC Hon. Nasir Kwarra in his remarks restated the commission determination to work with the revised National population policy aimed at improving the wellbeing of women and girls as well as accelerate national and global developments.
Furthermore,the Deputy Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund, Ms Erika Goldson in her presentation emphasized the need for bodily autonomy and protection of women and children.
The theme of the 2022 world population day is “A World of 8 Billion: Towards A Resilient Future for All — Harnessing Opportunities and Ensuring Rights and Choices for All”. The global event is celebrated every July 11 to raise awareness on various population issues such as the importance of gender equality, maternal health and human rights.
