The Lagos State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the State Primary Health Care Board and The Challenge Initiative (TCI), held a sensitization walk in the state capital, Ikeja, to raise public awareness on the importance of family planning, reproductive health, and access to safe contraceptives.
The walk, held in commemoration of World Contraception Day, brought together health officials, community leaders, and residents to promote informed decision-making and access to family planning services. Participants engaged in educational outreach, distributing informational materials and highlighting the role of contraception in empowering individuals, reducing maternal mortality, and fostering healthier communities across Lagos State.
Speaking during the exercise, Dr. Folashade Oludara, Director of Family Health and Nutrition at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, emphasized that family planning is central to healthy living and sustainable development. “World Contraception Day reminds us of the importance of life planning. Every pregnancy should be wanted, and every child should be loved and cared for,” she said.
Dr. Oludara particularly urged parents to play a more active role in educating their children about sexual and reproductive health. “Parents should not shy away from discussing sex education. When young people understand their bodies, they are better prepared to make informed choices. If they become sexually active, we should not deceive ourselves by denying them access to information and services,” she added.
She further explained that contraception does not only help prevent unintended pregnancies but also allows couples and individuals to enjoy healthier relationships. “Contraceptives are not meant to harm anyone but to help people adequately plan their lives. Everyone, including young people, should have the opportunity to make choices that secure their future,” she noted.
The Director also highlighted government efforts to make contraceptives more accessible. She mentioned strategies such as last-mile distribution to communities, ensuring availability of a wide range of methods in medical facilities, and promoting personalized counseling that takes into account an individual’s health history and lifestyle.
On her part, Dr. Latifatu Adeleye, the Lagos State Family Planning Manager, explained that the government has deployed mobile family planning teams to reach underserved areas. “These special teams take services such as implants and injectables from facilities directly to the grassroots. We want people to know that family planning is their choice, and it is available to them wherever they are,”she said.
Both officials reiterated that Lagos State, working with partners like TCI, will continue to scale up awareness campaigns, improve access to contraceptives, and promote counseling to ensure residents are empowered to make informed life choices. “Your life is your choice, and family planning helps you take control of it,” Dr. Adeleye concluded.
During the event, trained health workers and volunteers distributed free condoms and comprehensive informational materials to residents, educating them on the benefits of family planning, safe contraceptive options, and the importance of reproductive health in building stronger, healthier families.