, and the World Health Organisation (WHO), has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the well-being of adolescents and enhancing their access to quality physical and mental health services across the state.){kind=link}
The Niger State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the well-being of adolescents.
The collaboration is also to enhance their access to quality physical and mental health services across the state.
Speaking to journalists in Minna, this State Capital, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Primary Health Care, Dr. Mohammed Gana, said the partnership seeks to educate adolescents on reproductive health, personal responsibility, and the importance of utilizing available healthcare services within their communities.
Represented by the Deputy Director of the Community Health Department, Fatima Gogo Muhammad, Dr. Gana described the adolescent health week as an opportunity to highlight the challenges young people face. It is also to create safe spaces where they can freely express themselves, seek help, and receive the right health support from trained professionals.
He emphasized that “the government is committed to promoting responsible behaviour by increasing access to quality health services.”
Dr. Gana also called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, development partners, educators, and parents to ensure effective implementation of adolescent and mental health policies.
The Adolescent Youth Coordinator, Fatima Ahmed, while speaking on this year’s theme: “Thriving Inside and Out: Strengthening Physical and Mental Health,” stressed that adolescence is a critical stage that requires targeted interventions.
She reaffirmed, “The Ministry’s commitment to expanding youth-friendly health services, especially in hard-to-reach communities.”
As part of the activities, UNICEF, WHO, and other stakeholders visited Government Day Science College, Tunga, Minna, where they sensitised students on the importance of prioritizing their mental health.
The event also featured a panel session where speakers urged the government and partners to make mental and physical healthcare more accessible to young people across Niger State.