Gynaecologists for Nigeria don talk say junior and senior secondary school students no suppose learn about abortion procedures for school. Dem say dis kind of education fit harm the reproductive health of the students and encourage dem to try risky behaviours.
Prof. George Eleje, one Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, say it no dey right to teach junior secondary school students about abortion. He stress say students should learn about basic anatomy, menstrual hygiene, personal hygiene, and puberty as dem progress to senior classes.
Eleje argue say reproductive health education for secondary schools should focus on essential topics like personal hygiene, puberty, body awareness, menstrual health, and infection prevention, not abortion. He say, “Instead, reproductive health education should focus on personal hygiene, puberty, body awareness, menstrual health, and the importance of infection prevention and breast examination. It is too early for them to learn, even when they are not useful to them.”
The controversy start after one viral post on X show excerpts from a science textbook used in some junior secondary schools, which include detailed explanations of surgical abortion methods. Many Nigerians, including the All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Public Schools and the Parents Teachers Association, condemn dis textbook for including such sensitive content.
Dr Ejike Orji, Chairman of the Association for the Advancement of Family Planning, also talk about the high maternal mortality rate in Nigeria and how 70 percent of those affected are girls under the age of 15. He emphasize the need for family planning awareness among Nigerians to reduce unnecessary deaths from unsafe abortions.
