By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
Dec. 16, 2025
The governments of Adamawa State and Bauchi State are strengthening efforts to promote Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH) education, with a growing emphasis on peer-led engagement and community participation across the North-East.
The renewed focus follows concerns over poor adolescent health indicators, particularly in Adamawa, where nearly 45 per cent of the population is under 14 years. Health data show that about 15 per cent of girls aged 15–19 have experienced pregnancy, while early marriage and low contraceptive use continue to limit girls’ educational and economic opportunities.
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One such case is Halima (not her real name), a 15-year-old from Yola, whose pregnancy went unnoticed for months due to lack of basic sexual and reproductive health knowledge. Fear of stigma kept her away from school and delayed access to antenatal care, a situation common among many adolescents in the state.
In Bauchi State, where adolescents make up about 1.32 million of the population, similar challenges persist. According to the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board, gaps such as inadequate adolescent-friendly health services, limited funding and weak awareness continue to undermine effective ASRH delivery.
However, interventions supported by the European Union and Global Affairs Canada, and implemented by UNICEF Nigeria, are helping to change the narrative through adolescent clubs, peer education and community outreach. Stakeholders say sustained investment remains crucial to improving adolescent health outcomes in Adamawa, Bauchi and beyond.
