Availability of contraceptives, key to reducing fertility rate – AHBN

Dr Aminu Magashi, the Coordinator of African Health Budget Network (AHBN), says availability
of contraceptives is key to reducing the country’s fertility rate.

He told our correspondent in Abuja on Thursday that such a strategy was critical to reducing the high fertility
rate in the country.

reports have it that contraceptives are the different birth control methods used to prevent pregnancy.

The methods include the use of condom, diaphragm, cervical caps, contraceptive sponges, oral pills, implants and injectables.

Magashi said “one of the strategies of the policy is to eliminate unmet need for family planning.

“It means all those who need family planning can access and use it.”

The AHBN coordinator, who reiterated the imperatives of making available contraceptives to those that need them, said “it is the
roadmap to achieving demographic dividend.”

He, therefore, urged relevant stakeholders, especially the media, to amplify the advocacy for availability of contraceptives and
all forms of strategies to reduce fertility rate.

Reports  have it that Nigeria’s fertility rate is 5.2 birth per woman.