Hussaini Kafi in Kano
About 360 health centres in Yobe State now offer free family planning services, the state’s Primary Healthcare Board has announced.
Speaking during a media roundtable in Damaturu on Thursday, Hajiya Fatima Jiddum, Deputy Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health, said the centres provide both short- and long-term family planning methods at no cost.
“We have seen a steady increase in uptake, thanks to ongoing awareness campaigns supported by our partners,” she said.
Jiddum advised couples to seek services only from qualified professionals to avoid health risks.
Also speaking, Mustapha Musa, Chairman of the Yobe Family Planning Media Advocacy Team, commended The Challenge Initiative (TCI) and DevComs for driving community engagement. “Since April 2024, our campaigns have reached remote areas, helping to correct myths around family planning,” he said.
Islamic cleric, Sheikh Suleiman Abubakar noted that family planning aligns with Islamic teachings when agreed upon mutually by couples. Christian cleric Sumaila Baba added, “Christianity supports family planning when guided by health and financial considerations.”
