Bauchi's Family Planning Needs Highlighted in New Survey

Bauchi has reported a total fertility rate of 6.2 children per woman and a 22.2% unmet need for family planning, as per the 2023–2024 Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Board, shared these findings during a town hall meeting on World Contraception Day.

He highlighted the challenges in family planning access and the state's commitment under Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed to address these issues through increased investment. The state allocated approximately N50 million for family planning commodities and expanded service delivery points from 610 to 713.

Mohammed stressed the importance of not only physical availability of services but also addressing stock-outs and improving healthcare worker capacity. He called for shared responsibility in family planning, urging men to support their spouses in reproductive health decisions.