The Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria has restated its commitment to youth empowerment,  gender equality, and advancement of sexual reproductive health and rights for all.

Okai Haruna, executive director of PPFN, gave the assurance in remarks at the symposium on gender equality and Reproductive Health in Abuja.

It was supported by FP2030, AfriYAN, Education As A Vaccine, EVA, the University of Abuja, ARFH, the Mental Health for Youth Initiative, the Student Union, and many others.

He said the symposium is to celebrate the strength and credibility of young people who are at the forefront of building healthier, more equitable communities.

According to him, the Nigerian population is a young and growing one, hence the need to invest in them to enable them to have access to quality information on sexual reproductive health, gender equality, mental health, and others.

“This symposium provides the platform for dialogue, learning, and collaboration; a space where young voices can influence real action. It’s about shaping Nigeria, where gender equality is not an aspiration, but a reality.

“At PPFN,  our commitment remains firm to ensure that every young person, regardless of background or gender, has access to accurate information, youth-friendly services, and a safe space for expression and engagement.

“Through the YAM, we will continue to empower young people as advocates, educators, and champions of  change. We believe that youth engagement is essential; when youth lead the community, health outcomes improve. This is the spirit we are celebrating here today. Let me reaffirm PPFN’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and gender equality, and the advancement of PSRH and Health Education for all,” Mr Haruna said.

The PPFN boss further explained that gender equality does not mean parity with the opposite gender, but rather, equal access to healthcare, information on sexual reproductive health and rights.

He called for continuous collaboration and investment that promotes gender equality, reproductive health, and mental well-being.

Also speaking, the Youth Partnership Manager at FP2030, Margaret Bolaji, said that a larger share of the Nigerian population comprises youth, adding that it is unwise to neglect their unique needs.

“Let’s make sure we bring them on  board as partners. They are so innovative and creative; hence, the need to engage them positively to become agents of change. Nigeria is a committed member of FP2030, and we are happy that Nigeria usually involves young people. However, now is the time to turn that commitment to action,” Ms Bolaji said.

Also speaking, Stephen Nwankwo, a chief health assistant from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Development, said there is a need to build service providers’ capacity to enhance effective service delivery.

Ejiro Ukay from the Federal Ministry of Youth Development said the ministry has initiated numerous programmes to empower youth across the country.

Also, the founder and executive director of the Mental Health for Youth Initiative, Lucy Abeng, said there are various forms of mental health issues, adding that awareness and resilience are among the fundamental remedies.

(NAN)