Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health in Nigeria: Behavioural Patterns and Needs

Adolescent sexual and reproductive health issues and challenges in Nigeria are daunting; teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and illegal abortion, high and early entry into sexual activity and lack of adequate information about safe sex. Sexually active adolescents face several risks-as well as possibly contracting HIV and other STIs, there are unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, high-risk deliveries, reduced educational opportunities and poor economic outcomes. Improving adolescent reproductive health and reducing teenage pregnancies are essential ingredients of responsible policy making.