Stakeholders Call for Action as Teenage Pregnancy Rises in the North
A new health report has revealed a growing concern over the rising rate of teenage pregnancy in several northern states of Nigeria.
The report shows that a significant number of girls between the ages of 15 and 19 have experienced pregnancy, especially in some parts of the northern region. Among the states listed, Kebbi recorded the highest rate, with about 32 per cent of teenage girls having been pregnant.
Zamfara and Kaduna also followed closely, each recording about 30 per cent.
Health experts say the situation is alarming because teenage pregnancy can lead to serious health risks for both the young mothers and their babies. It also contributes to a high rate of school dropout among teenage girls, which can negatively affect their future opportunities.
In contrast, some southern states recorded much lower figures. For example, states like Lagos and Edo reported teenage pregnancy rates of about three per cent, showing a clear difference between the northern and southern parts of the country.
Experts also noted that the level of education among girls plays a major role in preventing early pregnancy. The report indicates that girls with little or no formal education are more likely to become pregnant at a young age, while those who continue their education beyond secondary school have a much lower risk.
Stakeholders have therefore called for stronger efforts to address the issue through improved access to education, awareness programmes, and better reproductive health support for young girls across the country.
COMMENTS