The Challenged Parenthood Initiative (CPI), a non-governmental organization, has expressed concern about the increasing rate of teenage pregnancies in Kogi State, highlighting its effects on girls’ education and future opportunities.
While visiting a hospital in Lokoja, CPI Director Eunice Agbogun voiced her worries about the rising number of girls who are out of school due to early pregnancies, describing this issue as a significant barrier to empowering young women.
“The initiative is regressing the state’s current efforts to equip young girls with education and skills necessary for a productive life,” Agbogun stated. She highlighted the need for an urgent, collaborative response, calling on stakeholders to tackle the underlying issues of teenage pregnancies.
The organization, in collaboration with local and international partners, took the initiative to cover the hospital expenses for a young mother who recently gave birth outside of marriage. Additionally, the program pledged to assist the teen in caring for her child and continuing her education.
Among the partners at the hospital were Elizabeth Adegbola, a former director at the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, members of the Lokoja Good Will Widows Association, and representatives from international organizations, including the Kelvin Makoji Foundation from the UK.
CPI has revealed intentions to create a support system for adolescent mothers. Agbogun expressed confidence that if young girls know there are resources or organizations available for assistance, they are less likely to turn to unsafe abortions.
The initiative aimed to launch extensive awareness campaigns on sexual and reproductive health to address the crisis. “We want to empower young girls to complete their education and achieve self-sufficiency and financial independence,” Agbogun remarked.
This initiative demonstrates CPI’s dedication to supporting government efforts aimed at tackling teenage pregnancy and enhancing the well-being of young girls in Kogi State.
