By Saminu Ibrahim
The coordinating minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate on Monday revealed that 1.2 billion global population representing 20 percent are adolescents, saying 85 percent live in developing countries,
Similarly, he disclosed that Nigeria has a population of 23% adolescents.
According to the minister, to secure and sustain future economic, social, and political progress and stability, Nigeria needs to make a strong commitment to closing the gaps in the health and development of its adolescents.
The minister spoke while briefing the press to commemorate Adolescent Week, also known as International Adolescent Health Week (IAHW) in Abuja.
Pate said the International Adolescent Health Week is an excellent opportunity for Nigeria to join its counterparts globally with full participation of adolescents and adolescent-focused organizations to beam the light on adolescent health and developmental issues.
The theme for this year “Thriving Inside-out: Strengthening Physical And Mental Health of Adolescents”, Pate noted that to truly help our adolescents thrive, “we must adopt a holistic approach that nurtures both their physical and mental health. Thriving inside-out means recognizing that physical well-being and mental well-being are deeply interconnected, one cannot flourish without the other”.
The coordinating minister of Health and Social welfare, represented by the Director of Human Resources Management, Teshoma Dafeta explained that currently, the ministry of health and social welfare has a funded budget line for adolescent health development, adding that states that do not are encouraged to establish one.
“The ministry has developed and implemented several adolescent health development policies, including the national adolescent health policy, the clinical protocol on adolescent health and development, guidelines, and training manuals, among others”.
Pate added, “there is also the Adolescent Health Development Sub-committee, which serves as a coordination platform to biannually review adolescent health interventions and programs for improved implementation of these initiatives.
Continuing, “the National Adolescent Health Development Training Manual is leveraged to build the capacity of frontline health workers at all levels of Service delivery”.
He opined that “a lot more needs to be done for this sub-population that constitutes 23% of our population based on the 2022 UNICEF data. Too often, adolescent and young people’s health are viewed narrowly, and they are often portrayed negatively – as risk-takers who disregard recommendations and guidance. And all too often, adolescents are neglected and kept away from participating in activities that determine their future. Their voices regarding decisions and policies that affect them directly are not usually considered”.
The coordinating minister emphasized that physical health during adolescence sets the stage for a lifetime of wellness.
“Proper nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and preventive healthcare are essential pillars. Adolescents need guidance and support to develop healthy habits that will sustain them through adulthood.
“We must ensure access to nutritious food, safe spaces for exercise, and education about the importance of sleep hygiene. Schools and communities play a vital role in creating environments that encourage physical activity and discourage harmful behaviors such as substance abuse.
“Equally important is mental health, which encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Adolescents face stressors that can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Stigma and lack of awareness often prevent young people from seeking help.
“We must foster open conversations about mental health, normalize seeking support, and provide accessible counseling services. Building resilience, teaching coping skills, and promoting positive self-esteem empower adolescents to navigate life’s challenges with confidence” the minister added.
Earlier, the permanent secretary, Daju Kachollom observed the significance of the event, stressing that it provides a unique opportunity to shine the spotlight on adolescents’ health and wellbeing, who represent not only the future of our nation but also an important force for change in the present.
Kachollom, who spoke through the Director of Family Health, Dr. Ukaire Binyerem said the gathering speaks to the holistic well-being of young people, not only their physical health, but also their mental, emotional, and social resilience, which are equally critical to their growth and productivity.
“Adolescence is a critical stage of growth, as you are aware, it is a period full of energy and potential, but also one that comes with unique challenges, from physical health needs to the often-overlooked area of mental well-being.
“This week provides an opportunity for adolescents and their communities to come together, raise awareness, and advocate for a successful and healthy transition into adulthood.
“We are deeply concerned about the challenges facing our adolescents, particularly the high burden of Sexual and Reproductive issues, including substance and drug abuse, among others.
“This is why we have established the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent, and Elderly Health plus Nutrition (RMNCAEH+N) multi-stakeholder partnership coordination platform involving partnerships between government, civil society, the private sector, and development partners that focus on providing leadership and coordination in ensuring that adolescents thrive inside and out”.
