15% of Nigerian girls experience teenage pregnancy – News – The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

According to the latest Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2023-2024, about 15 percent of young Nigerian girls aged 15-19 have become pregnant.

The NDHS report, released by the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja yesterday, reveals that the teenage pregnancy rate is 15% across the country.

The report described the situation as a pressing public health problem requiring urgent intervention. These rates were found to be much higher in rural areas, particularly in the northwest and northeast.

It describes the risks of teen pregnancy, including maternal health complications, loss of educational opportunities and increased cycles of poverty.
It further pointed out that 11% of girls have already given birth, 4% are currently pregnant and 2% experience a miscarriage, reflecting potential gaps in access to health care and
support.

Turning to socio-economic and educational impacts, the report found that teenage pregnancy rates were significantly higher among girls from lower wealth quintiles and with limited levels of education.

It was explained that the problem was caused by poverty and limited opportunities.

Meanwhile, prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted current policies and initiatives to reduce teenage pregnancy, such as sexual and reproductive health education, access to contraceptives, and youth support programs.

Dr. Aminu Magashi, Coordinator of the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN), stressed the importance of expanding initiatives focusing on education, access to health care and social support to reduce teenage pregnancy and improve reproductive health among adolescents.