By Esenam Amuzu

With projections of its population to reach 401.3 million by 2050, numbers will definitely be on the side of Nigeria. But will it be just numbers in quantity, and perhaps a slot in the Guinness book of records? The country may be on the path to ensuring that their numbers now and in the future aren’t just that in quantity but quality.

For the 8th time, the Family Planning and RH community in Nigeria is meeting to discuss the future of its population growth dynamics and the quality that comes through family planning.

The theme “Sustaining commitments for Family Planning within the Nigeria Health Sector, renewal investment initiative; advancing progress towards achieving FP2030 Goals” will help stakeholders align efforts, inspire innovation and sustain progress in Family Planning.

“We know that Family planning isn’t just about preventing pregnancies, it is a transformative tool for and improving saving lives, promotes gender equality and reducing maternal mortality”. said Dr. Ejike Oji– Chair of the LOC

Knowing that every 1-dollar investment made in FP saves 3 dollars in Maternal and Neonatal health costs by preventing unintended pregnancies, access to FP remains an urgent priority and need.

For Nigeria an urgent need to intensify efforts through leveraging on its youth who a se 70% of its current numbers, innovation, investments in commodities and services and a thriving global front efforts will ensure that its population growth isn't just in quantity of numbers but quality of lives of the women, men and girls who need and have access to Family Planning. They will need the funding, dedication and the commitments to get there.

All the best to Nigeria

Stay tuned for more community-driven, community-inspired reporting from the 8th Nigerian Family Planning Conference, taking place December 3–6, 2024.