The Ekiti State Government has reported a 36 per cent decline in teenage pregnancies and a 30 per cent reduction in unmet family planning needs across the state.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, disclosed this on Monday in Ado-Ekiti during a press conference to commemorate the 2026 International Adolescent Health Week.
The event, organised by the ministry in collaboration with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil society organisations and development partners, was held at the Data Bank Hall of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), State Secretariat.
This year’s theme is _“Nothing About Us Without Us: Power, Voice, and Health Equity for All Adolescents.”_
Filani said the progress was driven by adolescent sexual and reproductive health initiatives, health education and improved access to quality healthcare services.
According to him, the state has also administered 181,464 doses of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to eligible adolescents since its introduction in 2023, with robust community engagement ensuring coverage across all 16 local government areas.
He explained that the theme emphasises the need to recognise adolescents as active participants in healthcare planning rather than mere beneficiaries of government programmes.
“Adolescence is a critical stage of physical, emotional, social and psychological development, during which access to accurate information, appropriate healthcare and a supportive environment can influence long-term well-being,” he said.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Oyebanji administration to providing quality, affordable, confidential and adolescent-friendly health services irrespective of gender, socioeconomic background, disability or location.
He attributed part of the success to the Safe Space Programme implemented in public secondary schools in collaboration with relevant MDAs and partners, which creates an environment for students to discuss health concerns, access guidance and receive support through peer-to-peer engagement.
He added that the government has strengthened the capacity of gender officers and school counsellors and engaged community members during the introduction of the HPV vaccine.
On governance, Filani said the state has expanded opportunities for young people to contribute to healthcare planning and the ongoing budget process to ensure policies reflect their realities.
He noted that the government has invested in renovating and equipping health facilities, training and retraining healthcare workers, and expanding health insurance coverage to improve access.
On mental health, he said the government is working with the Ministry of Education to strengthen counselling services, leveraging the state’s mental health legislation for phased interventions.
Filani called on parents and guardians to maintain open communication with adolescents, provide accurate health information and create homes where young people can discuss sensitive issues without fear of judgement. He also urged communities to support efforts to curb drug abuse and other harmful practices.
As part of activities for the week, the state has lined up an adolescent health symposium and policy roundtable, radio and television discussions, medical outreach, webinars, writing and arts competitions, debates and interactive sessions aimed at raising awareness and giving adolescents a voice.
He said investing in adolescent health is essential to the future productivity and prosperity of Ekiti State and urged all stakeholders, including schools, traditional and religious institutions and development partners, to sustain collaboration beyond the annual commemoration.