By Musa Ubandawaki Sokoto
SOKOTO: The Sokoto State Primary Healthcare Development Agency has expressed deep appreciation to The Challenge Initiative (TCI) for its invaluable support in advancing family planning and reproductive health initiatives in the state.
Speaking on Monday at the TCI/ACG one-day roundtable review meeting, held at the Epidemiological Unit of the Specialist Hospital in Sokoto, Dr. Larai Tambuwal, Executive Secretary of the agency, emphasized the significance of this collaboration.
Represented by Malam Dahiru Muhammad Kamaru, Director of Advocacy, Communication, and Social Mobilization, Dr. Tambuwal described the meeting as a crucial platform to assess progress, tackle challenges, and strategize for the future.
“This meeting allows us to reflect on achievements, address challenges, and plan our next steps,” she stated. “I encourage all participants to share their experiences and insights to ensure a unified approach in achieving our goals.”
She reiterated the agency’s commitment to policies and programs prioritizing citizens’ health and well-being.
“Family planning remains a key focus of our advocacy efforts. We will continue strengthening partnerships with organizations like TCI to ensure sustainable impact,” she added.
Dr. Bello Abubakar Kilgori, State TCI Manager, underscored the role of advocacy in influencing decisions and ensuring that family planning initiatives reach those who need them most.
“Collaboration and shared knowledge are essential in advancing the family planning agenda,” he said. “We must educate the public, engage policymakers, and involve local communities to break barriers and promote family planning as a sustainable choice for families’ well-being.”
Sani Umar Jabbi, District Head of Gagi, highlighted the importance of personal responsibility in family planning.
“Couples must choose the method that best suits their needs. Bringing children into the world without adequate resources is unwise,” he advised.
Acknowledging the impact of economic challenges, Jabbi noted:
“Many couples now consider family planning essential due to financial constraints. It is not just a health issue but an economic and social necessity.”
Participants agreed that advocacy should extend beyond promoting family planning to addressing cultural misconceptions, improving service access, and ensuring affordability. The role of traditional and religious leaders in influencing community attitudes was also emphasized.
Dr. Tambuwal concluded by reaffirming the need for continuous advocacy.
“This collaboration demonstrates the power of collective action. We remain committed to empowering families, improving maternal and child health, and ensuring informed reproductive choices for all in Sokoto State.”
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to strengthen family planning initiatives, reinforcing the path to a healthier, more empowered society.
The post Empowering Families: Advocating for family planning in Sokoto State appeared first on Vanguard News.
