Gaza Gwamna, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Health, says 22.3 per cent of families in the state have adopted family planning to promote population control, maternal and child health, and economic development.

The commissioner, represented by John Damina, the ministry’s permanent secretary, stated this at a press conference on Friday in Lafia, as part of events commemorating the 2025 World Contraceptive Day.

Mr Gwamna said the milestone was achieved through increased awareness by the government in collaboration with partners and the uninterrupted availability of family planning commodities and consumables.

He explained that the state recorded just 14.8 per cent of the contraceptive prevalence rate in 2018, stating that the rate increased to 22.3 per cent in 2025 due to joint efforts with partners.

“This upward trend is a clear indicator of a collective dedication, growing awareness, and acceptance of family planning services in the state.

“The milestone is more than just statistics, but it represents thousands of families who have gained the power to plan their lives, space their children, and improve their overall health and economic well-being.

“It also translates directly into reduced maternal and child mortality, healthier families, and more women pursuing their education and other economic opportunities, thereby contributing more robustly to the state’s development,” the commissioner said.

He said that the ministry, in collaboration with development partners and other relevant stakeholders, would continue to advance family planning services in the state.

“We are particularly focused on ensuring the uninterrupted availability of family planning commodities and consumables because our efforts will be hampered without the supply,” he said.

The commissioner said the government had taken measures to ensure the provision of family planning services in all health facilities, as well as address out-of-stock syndrome for commodities.

He called on the public to embrace family planning, seek accurate information from medical experts, and refrain from believing misinformation and misconceptions about family planning. 

(NAN)