- The Nigerian federal government is working to decriminalize abortion, recognizing the need to protect women’s lives and reform existing laws
- Unsafe abortions contribute to 20% to 30% of maternal deaths in Nigeria, highlighting the urgency for improved access to reproductive health services
The federal government is taking steps to decriminalise abortion in the country, according to Dr. Binyerem Ukaire, Director of the Family Health Department at the Federal Ministry of Health.
Speaking during the SRHR Summit 1.0 in Abuja, held to mark World Contraception Day, Dr. Ukaire, represented by Barrister Nma Ogbonna, noted that sections 288 to 290 of the Criminal Code currently make abortion illegal. However, the government, in partnership with health advocates, recognises the need to protect the lives of women and girls of reproductive age by reforming these laws.
Dr. Ukaire stressed, “The government is working to ensure abortion is no longer a criminal act, as even doctors who perform the procedure currently face up to 14 years imprisonment.”
The summit, themed “A Choice for All: Freedom to Plan, Power to Choose,” highlighted the dangers of unsafe abortion in Nigeria. Dr. Elijah Olushola, Executive Secretary of Ogun State Primary Health Care Department, revealed that 20% to 30% of maternal deaths in Nigeria are linked to unsafe abortions, particularly among adolescents and young people.
Additionally, Dr. Lucky Palmer, Country Director of IPas Nigeria Health Foundation, stated that over 1,500 maternal deaths in Nigeria annually are due to unplanned pregnancies, which could be prevented through access to contraceptives.
The federal government, alongside health organisations, is working to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming to reduce maternal deaths caused by unsafe abortion.