By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
On World Contraceptive Day, women of childbearing age in Jigawa State have commended the state government and NGOs for their efforts in providing free contraceptives and family planning services at public health facilities. This acknowledgment emerged during a sensitization campaign held in Kudai village and Kiyawa towns, organized by the Jigawa State Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, in partnership with SFH-A360 and TCI.
During interviews, women expressed their appreciation for the vital services.
A mother of five from Kudai village, Mrs. Ramlatu Rabilu, recounted how she learned about child spacing during a visit to a local clinic for immunizations.
“I became interested in child spacing after understanding its benefits for health and family stability, especially given our economic situation,” she shared.
Mrs. Rabilu clarified that child spacing is not about limiting family size but about making informed medical choices that promote better outcomes for mothers and children. After discussing with her husband, she successfully planned for her fifth child, a son named after her father.
Malam Sahura Sahabi, another resident of Kudai, emphasized the importance of child spacing amid today’s economic challenges. She encouraged other women to utilize the available services for their families’ wellbeing.
Karimatu Maishanu from Kiyawa added that family planning is essential for reducing maternal and child mortality and improving nutrition. “Child spacing is crucial for the health and survival of both mother and child,” she asserted, urging families to adopt these practices.
The women collectively called on the state government and partners to enhance the availability of contraceptive services, noting the growing public awareness of their benefits.
This year’s theme, “A choice for all. Freedom to plan, power to choose,” highlights the significance of accessible family planning options.
Head of the Kiyawa Primary Health Care facility, Auwalu Musa Garba, reported that over 1,000 women have participated in the family planning program at their clinic.
He praised the commitment of the Ministry of Health, the Primary Health Care Development Agency, and NGOs in promoting reproductive health in the region.