Teenage pregnancy: NGO presents family planning medications to young mothers in Kogi community

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Bread of Hope, on Monday, moved to reduce teenage pregnancy in Oke-Offin community in Kogi by presenting over 100 doses of free family planning medications to young mothers.

Founder of the NGO, Mrs Vivian Okojie, said in an interview with our correspondent in Lokoja, on the sidelines of a workshop, held by the organisation at Cottage Hospital, Oke-Offin in Kogi.

According to her, teenage pregnancy is on the rise, particularly within the community, thereby hindering young mothers from continuing with their education.

This, she said, required urgent attention in order to get the girls back to school.

“In response to the rise in teenage pregnancies and the challenge of unplanned parenthood among young mothers, Bread of Hope is hosting a day workshop, focusing on family planning and career development for girls in Oke-Offin community.

“This initiative aims to offer free family planning options, including pills, implants and injections, to young mothers who are interested.

“This support is designed to assist young mothers in spacing their children, thereby providing opportunities for those who have left school to return and pursue a brighter future.

“The theme of the event: “Dreams before Diapers,” involves topics on Abstinence and Safe Choices, Personal Hygiene, Self-esteem and Body Positivity, Understanding Reproductive Health, Family Planning Guidance, the Importance of Education and Money-making Skills,” she said.

Okojie expressed the hope that the workshop would empower the young mothers and help them focus on their career and personal development rather than early motherhood.