Akwa Ibom Government Urged to Boost Family Planning Budget and Ensure Timely Fund Release

In response to the rising global maternal mortality rates, the Akwa Ibom State government has been urged to increase its budget for Family Planning (FP) and ensure timely release of funds to address deficiencies in family planning services within the state.

This call for action emerged from a media and stakeholders roundtable organized by The Challenged Initiative (TCI), a non-governmental organization specializing in reproductive health and family planning, held in Uyo over the weekend.

Dr. Mandu Ekpenyong, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Advocacy Core Group, presented a paper titled “Catalyzing Economic Growth through Funding for Family Planning in Akwa Ibom State,” emphasizing that investing in family planning could significantly boost the state’s economic development.

She highlighted that providing adequate family planning commodities would empower individuals to make informed reproductive health choices, improve health outcomes, and contribute to the reduction of poverty and hunger.

Dr. Ekpenyong stated, “It is crucial for the government to understand the importance of funding and promptly releasing funds to Family Planning units within the Ministry of Health and other health agencies. This investment will drive economic growth and help manage population growth.”

She added, “Effective Family Planning programs enable individuals and families to make informed decisions about the number and spacing of their children. Fewer children lead to a slower population growth rate, alleviating pressure on resources and infrastructure, which supports sustainable development.”

Mrs. Nsima Umoh, Family Planning Supervisor in Mkpat Enin, acknowledged the scarcity of FP commodities and consumables in primary health facilities, which is impacting service delivery. She called for increased budgetary allocation and more supplies to support FP efforts, while also urging traditional and religious leaders to advocate for family planning within their communities.

Rev. Isang Eyoumoh, Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Akwa Ibom, stressed the need for increased awareness and education about family planning in churches, particularly addressing lingering myths. Similarly, the Secretary of the Muslim community in the state shared that initial misconceptions about family planning being aimed at reducing their population had been clarified, with a better understanding now emerging about its role in child spacing rather than mere birth control.

Dr. Obase Sam Edet, speaking on behalf of TCI Executive Director Dr. Taiwo Johnson, expressed optimism that family planning would gain the necessary prominence in public health. TCI is committed to overcoming barriers created by myths and misconceptions, enhancing the availability of FP services, and increasing its adoption through the provision of essential commodities and consumables.