The Kwara State government has inaugurated activities to mark the 2025 International Adolescent Health Week at the Alanamu and Okelele Primary Healthcare Centres in Ilorin, the state capital.

The programme was supported by the European Union-funded Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (EU-SARAH) Initiative and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), focusing on youth health and development.

The week-long event aims to raise awareness on issues affecting the health and well-being of adolescents, promoting responsible behaviour and increased access to quality reproductive and mental health services.

The executive secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Nusirat Elelu, on Wednesday reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving adolescent health and development through sustained awareness and community-based health initiatives.

Represented by Michael Oguntoye, Ms Elelu said the celebration provided an opportunity to educate adolescents on reproductive health, personal responsibility, and the importance of accessing available healthcare services in their communities.

UNICEF health specialist Hadiza Aliyu stressed the need for creating safe spaces where adolescents could speak freely, seek help, and receive tailored health support from trained focal persons statewide.

Medinat Olaosebikan, state coordinator for RMNCAH+N, advised in-school and out-of-school adolescents to avoid drug abuse and risky behaviours, and prioritise mental health as part of lifelong health habits.

Elizabeth Gabi, adolescent desk officer, urged students to stay focused on their academics and uphold strong moral values, noting that their current decisions would significantly impact their future outcomes. 

(NAN)