FG Stronger Investment In Adolescent Health To Secure Nigeria’s Future
As Nigeria marks the 2025 International Adolescent Health Week, the Federal Government has called for stronger investment and policy commitment towards improving adolescent health and well-being, describing it as critical to the nation’s socio-economic and political progress.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, noted that adolescents make up 23 per cent of Nigeria’s population and represent a vital sub-group whose health and development must be prioritised if the country hopes to sustain its future.
Represented by the Director of Human Resources in the Ministry, Tetshoma Dafeta, the Minister highlighted the establishment of an Adolescent and School Health Branch, a dedicated budget line, and several policy documents, including the National Adolescent Health Policy, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen adolescent health systems.
However, he admitted that “a lot more needs to be done” to integrate both physical and mental health services, in line with this year’s theme, “Thriving Inside-Out: Strengthening Physical and Mental Health of Adolescents.”
Professor Pate stressed the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration among schools, families, and healthcare providers, urging legislators to include adolescent-focused budgetary allocations in ministries such as Education, Youth Development, and Women’s Affairs.
“By investing in adolescent health today, we invest in a healthier, more resilient society tomorrow,” he said.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachallom, represented by the Director of Family Health, Dr Binyerem Ukaire, described adolescence as a “critical stage of growth” requiring deliberate attention.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to fostering programmes that promote holistic adolescent well-being through the RMNCAEH+N platform.
A poignant moment came when young pupil, Peculiar Bassey from Karmajiji Junior Secondary School, delivered an emotional appeal on behalf of her peers.
She thanked stakeholders for their support but urged greater attention to mental health challenges like stress, peer pressure, and loneliness. “Sometimes,” she said, “we just need someone to listen.”
The event featured goodwill messages from international partners, including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Society for Family Health (SFH), both of which reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Nigeria’s adolescent health agenda.
Activities lined up for the week include sensitisation visits to schools across Abuja’s AMAC, Kuje, and Bwari Area Councils.
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