Some educationists and other Nigerians have called for early and intensified sex education to promote healthy lifestyles, reduce risks, and empower adolescents to make informed decisions about their sexual health.

In interviews in Lagos on Sunday, they said that early sex education would tackle teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases among adolescents.

Adetoro Abeeb, a teacher in a public school in Lagos, said that early sex education had numerous advantages.

“Sex education empowers students to make informed decisions about their sexual health, relationships, and well-being. It would also reduce the rate of teenage pregnancy. Studies have shown that sex education can lead to a decrease in teenage pregnancy rates,” she said.

She urged governments to make sex education compulsory in schools, saying that it would help students, families, and society at large.

Kemi Oke, also a teacher, described early sex education in Nigeria as a topic of growing importance.

“Early sex education in Nigeria is a topic of growing importance, particularly given the rising cases of sexual abuse and exploitation among children.

“The National Sexuality Education Curriculum introduced in Nigeria in 2002 encourages parents to begin sex education at home.

“Early sex education prevents sexual abuse and educates children on body boundaries and consent. It promotes healthy relationships and fosters respect, communication, and empathy,” she said.

A mother, Shola Johnson, said that teachers should be equipped with appropriate skills to deliver sex education.

“By prioritising early sex education, Nigeria can empower children with knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate their reproductive health and relationships. This can ultimately foster a healthier and more informed society,” she said.

Bayo Oluadekoya, a mechanical engineer, said that sex education would help adolescents to understand how to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus.

“Sex education can help students to develop healthy relationships and good communication skills, and reduce gender-based violence. Sex education can help students to understand consent, boundaries, and respect for others,” he said.

He added that sex education could help to address harmful cultural and societal norms contributing to gender inequality and sexual violence.

 Mofe Oluwajuwon, a businessman, said that sex education would empower students, especially girls, to take control of their bodies, health, and well-being.

“Sex education can help to reduce stigma and shame associated with sexual health and relationships.

“It can promote healthy lifestyles, including responsible sexual behaviour and decision-making. It can also provide critical support to vulnerable populations such as adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those living with HIV,” he said.

He added that early sex education would promote healthy lifestyles, reduce risks, and empower students to make informed decisions about their sexual health and well-being.

(NAN)