The Sokoto State government has inaugurated a sensitisation campaign to promote responsible behaviour and improve access to reproductive and mental health services for adolescents in schools, orphanages, and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.

The initiative is part of activities to mark the 2025 International Adolescent Health Week (IAHW), led by the Sokoto State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (SSPHDA), with support from the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).

Also supporting the programme are the European Union-funded Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (EU-SARAH) Initiative and UNICEF, focusing on improving youth health, personal development, and access to essential healthcare services.

Speaking on Thursday, Zahra Abubakar, programme lead at SSPHDA, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to advancing adolescent health through continuous awareness, community engagement, and the creation of supportive environments for young people statewide.

“This week-long event aims to raise awareness about critical issues affecting adolescent well-being, including harmful behaviours and the importance of healthy choices,” she said.

Ms Abubakar said the initiative empowered adolescents with vital knowledge about reproductive health, personal responsibility, and how to access healthcare services, while also promoting safe spaces for open discussion and youth participation.

At A.A. Raji Special School, Resource Person Hajia Fatima Inuwa urged in-school and out-of-school youths to avoid drug abuse, maintain healthy habits, and prioritise mental health, while practising good hygiene and personal cleanliness.

Nafi’u Muhammad, who spoke on mental health, warned students about depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, identifying them as key contributors to rising mental health disorders among young people in Nigeria.

“Staying focused on studies, avoiding risky behaviour, and maintaining strong moral values are essential to building a successful future,” he added, urging the students to make informed life choices.

Locations visited during the sensitisation included Sultan Bello Secondary School, Hafsat Ahmadu Bello Model Arabic Secondary School, Sokoto Orphanage Home, and Ramin Kura IDP Camp, reaching many adolescents and young people.

The campaign also featured vibrant street rallies along Fodio Road and Kara Livestock Market Road, drawing attention from the public and increasing awareness on adolescent health and responsible behaviour in Sokoto.

Officials from the participating institutions, including Rashida Bayero and Vice Principals Hadiya Muhammad and Gudu Isa-Kebbe, lauded the campaign, describing it as timely, relevant, and impactful for the community.

(NAN)