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With the world increasingly focused on achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (good health and well-being) and SDG 5 (gender equality), meeting the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs of young people has become a global imperative. Several countries have made progress on this, especially in areas of adolescent-friendly health services, access to contraception, and comprehensive sexuality education. But this is not the case for many others in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where it is reported that adolescents face significant barriers, including in poor SRH information. While it is recommended that we improve adolescents SRH knowledge, the question remains, what kind of SRH information do adolescents in SSA need and how do we tailor it to meet their need?

Defining Adolescent and Comprehensive SRH Information

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines adolescents as individuals aged 10 to 19. This age range includes children in early puberty, teenagers exploring identity and relationships, and older youth preparing for adulthood.

According to the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission, a comprehensive package of SRH services includes maternal and newborn care, contraceptive services, and HIV/AIDS prevention. It also encompasses lesser-emphasized areas such as comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), care for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), access to safe abortion services, counselling and treatment for infertility and cervical cancer, as well as support for gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual well-being.

While this package outlines what an ideal SRH framework looks like, the reality for adolescents is far more nuanced. Do they need information on all these topics? Yes, but not all at once, and certainly not in the same format or depth. We must acknowledge that adolescents are a diverse group, and their needs must be tailored according to their age, gender, educational background, socio-economic status, and sexual activity levels. Thus, their SRH needs vary widely depending on their developmental stage.

For example, younger adolescents (10–14) may need foundational knowledge about puberty, menstruation, and bodily autonomy. Older adolescents (15–19) might seek information on contraception, consent, safe sex, and STI prevention. Importantly, some adolescents may already be sexually active or even married, particularly in contexts where child marriage is prevalent. For these individuals, timely and accurate SRH information can be lifesaving.

Tailoring SRH Information to Adolescent Needs

To be effective, SRH information must be tailored to the unique needs and contexts of adolescents. This means:

• Age appropriateness: Younger adolescents need simpler, more foundational information, while older teens may require more detailed guidance.
• Context sensitivity: Information should consider local languages, cultural norms, and values without compromising scientific accuracy.
• Gender responsiveness: SRH programs must address the different needs of boys and girls.
• Engagement strategies: Peer education, digital platforms, radio dramas, and school clubs can all be effective in reaching young people.
• Safe spaces: Adolescents need safe, confidential environments where they can ask questions and access services without fear of stigma.

Why SRH Information Matters

Providing adolescents with comprehensive SRH information is critical for several reasons:

• Preventing unintended pregnancies: Lack of knowledge about contraception and reproductive anatomy can lead to unintended pregnancies. This often result in school dropout, economic hardship, and unsafe abortions.
• Reducing STI/HIV transmission: Adolescents who are informed about safe sex practices are more likely to use condoms and seek testing and treatment.
• Empowering informed choices: Knowledge about consent, bodily rights, and gender equality enables adolescents to make informed decisions about their relationships and sexual behaviour.
• Breaking the cycle of silence: In many African societies, discussing sex remains taboo. Providing comprehensive SRH education breaks this silence, encourages open dialogue, and challenges harmful norms.

Our InSiGHt

At InSiGHt, we are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to the delivery of adolescent SRH information in sub-Saharan Africa. We have a strong track record in health systems strengthening, research, and implementation science, that can support governments and development partners in designing evidence-informed SRH interventions. In previous projects, we adopted localised contexts, utilised stakeholder engagement, health communication, and digital solutions to meet the need of adolescents. Therefore, we have the capacity to co-create age-appropriate, culturally sensitive, and gender-responsive educational tools that resonate with diverse adolescent audiences.

Furthermore, our work in policy analysis and capacity building can enhance the ability of educators, healthcare providers, community groups and civil society to deliver accurate and non-judgmental SRH information. Through partnerships with relevant organizations and agencies, we can ensure that adolescents are not only recipients of information but active participants in shaping the content and channels through which it is delivered.

We believe in bridging evidence with action and working across policy and practice. We can play a critical role in ensuring that every adolescent has access to the information they need to make informed decisions about their SRH.

Conclusion

Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa need accurate, timely, and contextually relevant sexual and reproductive health information to lead healthy lives. This information must be tailored to their age and context, and delivered through trusted channels, supported by enabling environments. Meeting these needs is not only a public health priority but also a human rights imperative. To achieve the SDGs and ensure that no young person is left behind, comprehensive SRH education must become a standard part of adolescent development across the region.

Every day, around 800 million women and girls worldwide are menstruating. Yet, for about 500 million of them, managing their period safely and hygienically remains a challenge. Without urgent action, poor menstrual hygiene management (MHM) will continue to undermine the health, education, dignity, and economic opportunities of women and girls, with serious consequences for society at large.

Menstruation is a natural and essential part of a woman’s life, closely tied to the reproductive process. Maintaining optimal menstrual hygiene is therefore crucial for the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of adolescent girls and women.

The Situation in Nigeria: A Snapshot

In Nigeria alone, more than 37 million girls and women experience period poverty, unable to afford essential menstrual hygiene products. Rural-urban disparities also exist, with girls in urban areas generally having better access to menstrual hygiene facilities and education compared to their rural counterparts. Period poverty and poor MHM are worse in Northern Nigeria compared to Southern regions due to higher poverty rates, cultural taboos, and lower education levels for girls. In conflict-affected areas like the Northeast (e.g., Borno, Yobe, Adamawa), internally displaced persons (IDPs) have particularly poor MHM facilities, which ultimately compounds girls’ vulnerability.

Nigeria has national guidelines on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in Schools, emphasizing the importance of MHM, but implementation remains very poor, especially in rural schools. Some state-level initiatives like the “Pad a Girl” campaign exist, but coverage is limited and not systematic nationwide.

The Consequences of Poor Menstrual Hygiene Management

1. Health and Environmental Risks

When sanitary products are unavailable or unaffordable, many girls and women resort to using unhygienic alternatives such as old clothes, newspapers, or tissue paper. These practices increase the risk of reproductive tract infections, urinary tract infections, and toxic shock syndrome.

The situation is exacerbated by limited knowledge: a recent UNFPA report found that 57% of Nigerian girls have inadequate knowledge of menstrual hygiene, and over 77% reuse menstrual materials not intended for reuse. This lack of proper MHM education contributes to greater reproductive health problems and increased healthcare burdens.

Environmental risks also loom large. Many low-cost menstrual alternatives are non-biodegradable and improperly disposed of, contributing to waste pollution. Without promoting sustainable, eco-friendly menstrual products, Nigeria risks compounding its environmental challenges.

2. Educational Setbacks and Economic Implications

Menstrual hygiene challenges directly affect girls’ educational outcomes. Studies show that many girls miss school several days each month due to a lack of sanitary products, inadequate toilet facilities, and fear of embarrassment. A 2015 UNICEF survey in Nigeria revealed that menstruation remains a neglected topic, with teachers often uncomfortable discussing it, further reinforcing stigma and misinformation.

This absenteeism contributes to lower academic performance and higher dropout rates among girls, limiting their future economic opportunities and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

A Call for Multi-Sectoral Action

Addressing the multifaceted challenges of poor menstrual hygiene management requires coordinated efforts across various sectors:

• • Health Sector: Integrate MHM into reproductive health services and provide training for healthcare workers to educate communities.
  • Education Sector: Incorporate comprehensive menstrual health education into school curricula and train teachers to handle the subject sensitively.
  • WASH Sector: Ensure the availability of clean water, private sanitation facilities, and proper waste disposal systems in schools and public places.
  • Social Protection Programs: Provide subsidies or free distribution of menstrual hygiene products to low-income and vulnerable populations.
  • Community Engagement: Work with local leaders and organizations to challenge cultural taboos and promote open discussions about menstruation.

By strengthening multi-sectoral collaboration, Nigeria can create an environment where girls and women manage menstruation with dignity, leading to improved health outcomes, educational attainment, and economic participation.

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As the world approaches the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nigeria faces a pressing challenge: the ongoing loss of skilled health professionals threatens its ability to meet critical health targets.

The Human Resource Crisis in Healthcare

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of 4.45 skilled health workers per 1,000 people. Nigeria currently falls short, with only 1.83 per 1,000, and its population is projected to exceed 263 million by 2030, further straining the healthcare system.

Between 2008 and 2021, over 36,000 Nigerian doctors migrated to the UK alone. Additionally, from 2021 to 2024, more than 42,000 nurses left for opportunities abroad.

Consequences on Health Outcomes

The shortage of health workers has led to increased workloads for those remaining, diminished quality of care, and a reliance on informal or unregulated health providers. This situation has resulted in poor health outcomes:

• Maternal Mortality Ratio: 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020, ranking as the third-highest in Africa.
• Neonatal Mortality Rate: 34.3 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022, nearly three times higher than the SDG target of 12.
• Under-5 Mortality Rate: 107 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022, substantially exceeding the SDG target of 25.

Strategies for Improvement

To address these challenges, Nigeria must take bold, evidence-informed steps:

• Implement the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration: This policy aims to reverse brain drain by encouraging the return of health professionals from the diaspora. Effective implementation should include incentives such as streamlined reintegration processes, competitive remuneration, and improved working conditions.
• Invest in Healthcare Infrastructure: Upgrading facilities and ensuring the availability of essential medical supplies can improve job satisfaction and retention among health workers.
• Enhance Training and Professional Development: Providing continuous education and career advancement opportunities can motivate health professionals to remain in the country.
• Strengthen Retention Policies: Developing robust policies that address the root causes of migration, such as inadequate compensation and poor working conditions, is crucial for retaining skilled health workers.

Addressing the human resource crisis in Nigeria’s healthcare system is essential for achieving the SDGs by 2030. Through concerted efforts and strategic investments, Nigeria can build a resilient health workforce capable of delivering quality care to its growing population.

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The migration of healthcare professionals from Africa, particularly Nigeria, has reached alarming levels, posing significant challenges to the continent’s health systems. This phenomenon, often referred to as ‘brain drain,’ sees skilled workers seeking better opportunities abroad, leaving behind understaffed and under-resourced healthcare facilities.

Understanding the Exodus

Several factors contribute to this mass departure:

• Economic Disparities: Healthcare workers often face low wages and limited career advancement opportunities in their home countries.
• Working Conditions: Inadequate infrastructure, lack of essential medical supplies, and overwhelming patient loads contribute to job dissatisfaction.
• Security Concerns: In regions plagued by conflict or instability, personal safety becomes a significant concern for medical professionals.

These challenges push healthcare workers to seek better prospects in countries that offer higher salaries, better working environments, and more stable political climates.

The Impact on Healthcare Systems

The departure of skilled health workers has dire consequences:

• Staff Shortages: Hospitals and clinics struggle to maintain adequate staffing levels, leading to increased workloads for remaining staff and reduced quality of care.
• Training Gaps: The loss of experienced professionals hampers the training and mentorship of new healthcare workers.
• Economic Loss: Countries invest significant resources in training healthcare professionals, only to see that investment benefit other nations.

Strategies for Retention and Repatriation

Addressing the brain drain requires a multifaceted approach:

• Improved Compensation: Offering competitive salaries and benefits can make domestic positions more attractive.
• Enhanced Working Conditions: Investing in healthcare infrastructure and ensuring the availability of necessary medical supplies can improve job satisfaction.
• Professional Development: Providing opportunities for continuous education and career advancement can encourage professionals to remain in their home countries.
• Policy Reforms: Governments can implement policies that facilitate the return of diaspora professionals and discourage mass emigration.

For instance, some countries have introduced bonding agreements, requiring medical graduates to serve in their home country for a specified period before seeking employment abroad. Others have established programs to attract expatriate professionals back home by offering incentives and streamlined re-entry processes.

The Role of International Collaboration

Addressing the brain drain is not solely the responsibility of African nations. International cooperation is crucial:

• Ethical Recruitment: Destination countries should adhere to ethical recruitment practices, avoiding aggressive poaching of healthcare workers from countries with critical shortages.
• Support for Health Systems: International aid and partnerships can help strengthen healthcare systems in source countries, making them more resilient and attractive workplaces.

Reversing the trend of healthcare worker migration is a complex challenge, but with concerted efforts from both African nations and the international community, it is possible to create conditions that encourage professionals to stay and contribute to the development of robust, equitable healthcare systems across the continent.

Imagine a world where groundbreaking treatments for diseases like malaria and HIV are discovered and tested within Nigeria, by local experts, for global impact. This vision is becoming a reality as Nigeria positions itself at the forefront of clinical research in Africa.

Africa: The Emerging Frontier in Clinical Research

Africa’s rich biodiversity, high disease burden, and diverse patient populations present unique opportunities for clinical research. Historically underrepresented in global trials, the continent is now attracting increased investment from pharmaceutical companies and research organizations. Enhanced healthcare infrastructure, improved regulatory frameworks, and a growing pool of skilled professionals are transforming Africa into a major destination for clinical studies.

Nigeria’s Ascendancy in Clinical Research

Several factors contribute to Nigeria’s growing prominence in the clinical research landscape:

1. Diverse and Large Population: With over 200 million people across various ethnic groups, Nigeria offers a robust sample population, facilitating studies that capture a wide range of genetic and environmental interactions.
2. Epidemiological Significance: The country’s high prevalence of diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS makes it a critical location for health research aimed at addressing global health challenges.
3. Advancing Research Infrastructure: Nigeria boasts numerous teaching hospitals, research institutes, and specialized clinical trial sites equipped with modern medical technologies. Collaborations between academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies are further strengthening the research ecosystem.
4. Regulatory Enhancements: Agencies like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC) have aligned their frameworks with international standards, fostering trust among global sponsors.
5. Growing Talent Pool and Technological Integration: An increasing number of trained researchers, clinicians, and data scientists ensure the professional and ethical execution of clinical trials. Additionally, advancements in digital health tools are enhancing patient management and data collection.

Notable clinical trials conducted in Nigeria include the RTS,S malaria vaccine study, a novel antiretroviral drug trial for HIV treatment, and the IAVI C105 Lassa fever vaccine clinical trial, underscoring the country’s research capabilities.

InSiGHt Clinical: Driving Excellence in Nigeria’s Clinical Research

InSiGHt Clinical is committed to advancing Nigeria’s clinical research sector by ensuring high-quality, regulatory-compliant trials. The organization supports sponsors and research teams through clinical monitoring, site management, and regulatory guidance, adhering to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards. By leveraging modern data management systems and conducting rigorous site evaluations, InSiGHt Clinical enhances the efficiency and reliability of clinical trials.

With expertise in project management, ethical compliance, and market entry strategies, InSiGHt Clinical facilitates the successful execution of clinical trials in Nigeria. Through its commitment to collaboration and excellence, the organization strengthens Nigeria’s position as a premier destination for clinical research in Africa.

Conclusion

Nigeria is not merely participating in Africa’s clinical research revolution—it is leading it. With its diverse population, evolving infrastructure, and robust regulatory frameworks, the country is poised to become a hub for global clinical research. Now is the time to invest in and collaborate with Nigeria’s clinical research sector, harnessing its strengths to propel Africa to the forefront of medical innovation.

The term “Japa,” derived from the Yoruba language meaning “to flee,” has become emblematic of the mass emigration trend among Nigerians, particularly skilled professionals seeking better opportunities abroad. This phenomenon has profound implications for Nigeria’s health sector, leading to a significant depletion of its healthcare workforce.

The Escalating Exodus of Healthcare Professionals

Recent data indicates a troubling trend: in 2022, approximately 75,000 nurses left Nigeria, and by 2024, over 16,000 doctors had emigrated. This mass departure has resulted in a nurse-to-patient ratio of 1:1,160 and a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:5,000, both falling far below the World Health Organization’s recommended standards.

Underlying Factors Driving the ‘Japa’ Trend

Several factors contribute to this exodus:

• Insecurity: Healthcare professionals often operate in environments plagued by banditry, insurgency, and kidnapping. Between May 2023 and April 2024, Nigeria witnessed over 600,000 deaths and more than 2 million kidnappings, making safety a paramount concern for medical workers.
• Underfunded Health Systems: Many health facilities lack essential equipment and resources, hindering effective service delivery and diminishing job satisfaction among healthcare workers.
• Weak Retention Policies: Despite producing a substantial number of healthcare graduates annually, Nigeria struggles with retaining its medical professionals due to inadequate policies and incentives.

Consequences for the Healthcare System

The mass migration of healthcare workers exacerbates existing challenges within Nigeria’s health sector:

• Increased Patient Wait Times: With fewer medical professionals available, patients experience longer wait times, delaying critical care.
• Diminished Quality of Care: Overburdened staff may struggle to maintain high standards of care, potentially compromising patient outcomes.
• Strain on Remaining Workforce: The remaining healthcare workers face increased workloads, leading to burnout and further attrition.

Strategic Interventions for Mitigation

To address the challenges posed by the ‘Japa’ phenomenon, a multifaceted approach is necessary:

• Enhance Security Measures: Implementing robust security protocols can ensure the safety of healthcare workers, particularly in high-risk areas.
• Invest in Healthcare Infrastructure: Allocating funds to upgrade medical facilities and equipment can improve working conditions and service delivery.
• Develop Retention Policies: Establishing competitive remuneration packages, career advancement opportunities, and supportive work environments can incentivize healthcare professionals to remain in the country.
• Foster Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between the government and private sector can mobilize resources and expertise to strengthen the health system.

Addressing the ‘Japa’ phenomenon requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders to create a conducive environment that retains and attracts healthcare professionals, ensuring the sustainability and resilience of Nigeria’s health sector.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly recognized as a transformative tool in healthcare, offering innovative solutions to longstanding challenges. In Nigeria, where the health system faces multifaceted issues, AI presents opportunities to enhance service delivery, optimize workforce management, and improve health information systems. This article explores how AI can be leveraged to address these challenges, aligning with the World Health Organization’s Health System Building Blocks framework.

1. Enhancing Service Delivery

Nigeria’s healthcare system grapples with limited access to quality services, particularly in rural areas. AI-powered telemedicine platforms bridge this gap by facilitating remote consultations, reducing the need for long-distance travel to urban centers. Wearable AI devices enable continuous health monitoring, allowing for early detection of health issues and reducing hospital visits. Additionally, AI streamlines administrative tasks, such as patient scheduling, freeing healthcare workers to focus more on patient care.

2. Strengthening the Health Workforce

With a health worker density of 1.83 per 1,000 people, Nigeria falls short of the WHO’s recommended 4.45 per 1,000. AI addresses this by offering virtual simulations and skills labs for continuous training, enabling healthcare professionals to enhance their expertise without disrupting patient care. AI-driven analytics also assist in workforce management by tracking attendance patterns, identifying causes of absenteeism, and optimizing staff deployment to areas with pressing needs.

3. Improving Health Information Systems

Accurate and timely health data are crucial for effective decision-making. However, Nigeria’s health information systems often suffer from incomplete and inaccurate data due to burdensome data collection processes and inadequate infrastructure. AI can automate data collection and analysis, reducing the workload on healthcare providers and improving the quality of health information. This, in turn, supports evidence-based planning and policy development.

By integrating AI into various facets of the healthcare system, Nigeria can address critical challenges and move towards achieving universal health coverage. However, successful implementation requires investment in infrastructure, training, and policy development to ensure that AI technologies are effectively and ethically utilized.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing healthcare by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, streamlining administrative tasks, and personalizing patient care. In Nigeria and across Africa, AI’s integration into healthcare systems is addressing longstanding challenges and improving outcomes.

AI Applications in Healthcare

1. Diagnostics and Imaging: AI algorithms analyze medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, to detect anomalies with high precision, aiding in early disease detection and treatment planning.
2. Predictive Analytics: By examining patient data, AI can predict health risks and disease progression, enabling proactive interventions and personalized care strategies.
3. Administrative Efficiency: AI automates routine tasks like scheduling and billing, reducing administrative burdens and allowing healthcare professionals to focus more on patient care.
4. Drug Discovery: AI accelerates the drug development process by identifying potential compounds and predicting their effectiveness, significantly reducing time and costs.
5. Remote Patient Monitoring: AI-powered devices monitor patients’ vital signs in real-time, facilitating timely interventions and continuous care, especially in remote areas.

AI in the Nigerian Healthcare Context

In Nigeria, AI is being leveraged to overcome healthcare delivery challenges:

• Telemedicine Expansion: AI supports telehealth services by enabling remote consultations and diagnostics, bridging the gap between urban and rural healthcare access.
• Resource Optimization: AI assists in managing limited healthcare resources by predicting patient influx and optimizing supply chains.
• Training and Education: AI-driven platforms provide continuous medical education to healthcare workers, enhancing their skills and knowledge base.

Challenges and Considerations

While AI offers numerous benefits, its implementation in healthcare comes with challenges:

• Data Privacy: Ensuring patient data confidentiality is paramount, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures.
• Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate technological infrastructure can hinder AI adoption, especially in under-resourced settings.
• Ethical Concerns: Addressing biases in AI algorithms is crucial to prevent disparities in healthcare delivery.

Embracing AI in healthcare holds the promise of improved patient outcomes, increased efficiency, and enhanced access to medical services. As Nigeria continues to integrate AI into its healthcare system, collaboration among stakeholders will be key to navigating challenges and maximizing benefits.

In many Nigerian communities, traditional gender norms assign men the role of primary providers, while women are expected to manage household duties, including child-rearing and nutrition. These entrenched roles significantly influence maternal, infant, and young child nutrition (MIYCN) practices, often limiting women’s autonomy in making critical health and nutrition decisions for themselves and their children.

Understanding the Impact of Gender Norms on Nutrition

A recent study analyzing gender dynamics in Nigeria revealed three overarching gender meta-norms that dictate women’s mobility, delineation of household tasks, and decision-making authority. These norms directly affect women’s and men’s engagement in recommended MIYCN behaviors, such as involvement in the production and purchasing of nutritious foods and seeking healthcare and nutrition counseling.

The study also highlighted strong traditional gender ideologies and sanctions that uphold these restrictive norms. However, participants described some exceptions to these norms, indicating potential shifts in gender roles and opportunities for more inclusive nutrition practices.

The Role of Men in MIYCN

While men are traditionally seen as providers, their involvement in MIYCN is often limited to financial support. This narrow engagement overlooks the potential benefits of active male participation in nutrition-related activities, such as meal planning, food preparation, and attending healthcare appointments.

Encouragingly, initiatives that engage men in discussions about maternal and child nutrition have shown positive outcomes. For instance, small group discussions among fathers about breastfeeding and maternal nutrition have had a significant impact on preventing child deaths.

Strategies for Promoting Gender-Inclusive Nutrition Practices

To address the challenges posed by traditional gender norms, the following strategies are recommended:

• Community Engagement: Implement programs that involve both men and women in discussions about nutrition, challenging existing norms and promoting shared responsibilities.
• Education and Awareness: Provide targeted education to men about the importance of their involvement in MIYCN, highlighting the positive impact on family health outcomes.
• Policy Development: Advocate for policies that support gender equity in nutrition and healthcare decision-making, ensuring that both men and women have equal opportunities to contribute.
• Supportive Interventions: Design interventions that address barriers to male involvement, such as time constraints and lack of knowledge, to facilitate their active participation in MIYCN practices.

By challenging traditional gender norms and promoting inclusive practices, Nigeria can make significant strides in improving maternal, infant, and young child nutrition outcomes. Engaging men as active participants, beyond their traditional roles as providers, is essential in creating a supportive environment for optimal nutrition and health.

Explore how gender-informed programs change nutrition outcomes.

In Nigeria, mental health emergency hotlines have emerged as a crucial resource for individuals seeking immediate psychological support. A descriptive study conducted between March 2022 and September 2023 analyzed 717 calls received by these hotlines, providing valuable insights into the demographics and needs of the callers.

Key Findings from the Study

Primary healthcare serves as the bedrock of any robust health system. In Nigeria, however, several persistent issues hinder its effectiveness:

• Prevalence of Mental Health Concerns: Out of the 717 calls, 512 were directly related to mental health issues, indicating a significant demand for such
• Geographical Distribution: Calls were received from all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, with the South West zone accounting for the highest number, followed by the South-South zone.
• Demographics:
  • Age: The majority of callers were between 18 and 27 years old.
  • Gender: While most callers identified as male, the North East and North Central regions had a higher proportion of female callers.
  • Employment Status: A significant number of callers were unemployed, highlighting the intersection between economic factors and mental health.
• Primary Reasons for Calling: The predominant issues prompting calls included depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, underscoring the urgent need for accessible mental health support.
• Call Timing: An increase in call volume was observed from July to September, with peak calling hours between 12 PM and 6 PM, particularly in the North West and South West zones.

Implications for Mental Health Interventions

The data underscores the critical role of emergency hotlines in providing immediate support to individuals in distress. Understanding the demographics and patterns of hotline usage can inform targeted mental health interventions, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to meet the needs of various regions and populations.

Moreover, the study highlights the necessity for continuous public awareness campaigns to destigmatize mental health issues and promote the availability of support services. By tailoring interventions to the specific needs identified through hotline data, stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness of mental health programs across Nigeria.

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