Nigeria Urged to Adopt Long-Acting Contraceptives for Growth

Professor Biola Okunlola, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Head of the Fertility Research and Endocrine Unit at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, has called for the increased adoption of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC) in Nigeria. He warned that the country's rapidly growing population, coupled with a persistently low contraceptive uptake below 20%, necessitates innovative, evidence-based family planning strategies.

Speaking at a departmental grand round on recent advances in LARC, Okunlola highlighted that modern contraceptive technologies achieve effectiveness rates exceeding 99% with low complication rates. He noted that misconceptions, cultural beliefs, and limited access hinder the acceptance of modern contraceptive methods.

Okunlola urged government, healthcare professionals, and development partners to enhance public education and strengthen family planning services. He also mentioned that the Fertility Research and Endocrine Unit is contributing to contraceptive research through digital health solutions and emphasized the integration of family planning with other reproductive health services.