Stakeholders commend Nigeria on development of Adolescents and Young people
By Bitrus Kozah, Abuja
Development partners have applauded the Nigerian government for its readiness to partner with international organisations and others in ensuring the prioritisation of the health and development of Adolescents and Young people.
The appraisal was made at the 1st African Regional & 2nd Nigeria Adolescent Health and Youth Conference, held in Abuja.
The conference presented a platform for young people and policymakers to jointly assess the progress made with fulfilling promises related to adolescents and young people’s health and wellbeing.
The Country Director of Pathfinder International, Dr Amina Dorayi, said that the conference is aimed at discussing, learning and strategising on the means to improve on the health needs of adolescents in Nigeria.
“This chart a way to optimise future investments in the development of adolescents and young people,” Dr Dorayi said.
The Country Director of Pathfinder International also emphasised on the role of partners in advancing adolescent health agenda in Nigeria with the theme fulfilling the promise.
She said that Pathfinder International would continue to support the government to identify the needs of adolescents especially as it areas of concern, which are mostly addressed through policies, plans and guidelines by the government.
The Organisation according to her has supported the government to develop policies.
Dr Dorayi also highlighted some of the National Policies the Health and Development of Adolescents and Young People in Nigeria.
She said the organisation supported the review and validation alongside other partners at the sub-national levels, for Ogun State Adolescent Strategic plan and framework.
The Organisation also set up Adolescent Technical Working Groups in Gombe and Nasarawa States.
She added that Pathfinder International “works with young people to ensure they are taking control of their health and leading the process of decision making as it affects their health and development.”
Mercy Chukwudibere
