The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has called for increased support for adolescent health initiatives, citing rising mental health concerns and vulnerabilities.
Professor Pate made the call as Nigeria joins the global community in celebrating International Adolescent Health Week, themed “Thriving, Not Surviving: Building Adolescents’ Resilience.”
Pate, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Kachallum Daju, said the critical stage of life is marked by rapid physical, emotional, and mental development, but adolescents also face significant vulnerabilities, including mental health issues, gender-based violence, and structural barriers like poverty and poor access to quality healthcare.
“The Federal Ministry of Health is strengthening adolescent health systems through initiatives like the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, which aims to provide adolescent girls with access to menstrual hygiene, reproductive health education, and mental health support services.”
“Additionally, the ministry is working to improve adolescent nutrition, combat gender-based violence, and provide young people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health.”
“The National Mental Health Program has also been established to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and provide adolescents with the support and care they need. Mental health must be treated with the same urgency and importance as physical health.”
Professor Pate also stressed that building adolescent resilience requires collective efforts from all sectors of society.
He appreciated the technical and financial support from WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, and other stakeholders.
The Permanent Secretary, Kachallum Daju, who was represented by the Director of Family Health, Dr Binyerem Ukaire, said the theme for this year, “Thriving, Not Surviving: Building Adolescents’ Resilience,” highlights the critical importance of ensuring that young people are not just navigating through life but are equipped with the skills, resources, and support systems needed to contribute meaningfully to society.
“As we reflect on the challenges faced by adolescents—ranging from mental health issues to access to healthcare and education—it becomes clear that our work is far from over.”
“Adolescence is a formative period, and the health choices made during these years can impact an individual’s entire life course.
“This is why this commemoration is not just symbolic—it serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect, nurture, and empower our adolescents.
She said the Ministry remains committed to the health and wellbeing of all Nigerians, in particular our young people.
She, therefore, encourages all—health professionals, policymakers, educators, parents, the media, and young people—to work together towards a future where every adolescent can thrive.
“Our actions will pave the way for more impactful access to the healthcare, education, and support they deserve.” She added.
The Health Officer of the FCT Universal Education Board, Ismail Shehu, explained that in schools, guidance and counselling play a pivotal role in shaping adolescents’ lives.
He added that dedicated teachers in FCT schools provide counsel not only on health but also on educational career paths, empowering students to make informed decisions about their future.
“This comprehensive approach ensures adolescents thrive, not just survive. The Ministry of Health, under Professor Mohammed Pate’s leadership, remains committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all, particularly our young people.”
“To achieve this, we are strengthening school health systems by ensuring schools have adequate health facilities and personnel to address the unique needs of adolescents.”
“Additionally, we are providing accessible mental health services to address growing concerns of anxiety, depression, and related issues.
“Furthermore, we are empowering educators by equipping teachers with the necessary tools and training for comprehensive guidance and counselling,” he said.
The African Health Budget Network (AHBN) advocacy and accountability specialist, Maimuna Abdullahi, noted that Adolescents Week provides an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the unique challenges young people face and renew their commitment to addressing their health needs comprehensively.
“Adolescence is a critical period of growth and development, and ensuring access to health services, education, and support during this time is vital to shaping a healthy and prosperous future for our nation.
“At AHBN, we remain committed to the Federal Ministry of Health, and we stand united with our partners in reaffirming our dedication to promoting the provision of youth-friendly services, promoting mental health, addressing reproductive health concerns, and empowering our adolescents to make informed decisions about their health.”
She called for adequate investment in adolescent health, as she described it as an investment in the future of Nigeria.
“Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient generation that will contribute to the growth and development of our great nation.”
Meanwhile, the representative of adolescents, Fatima Jibril from JSS Kuchigoro in FCT, said adolescents need programmes that include everyone no matter their background, especially in rural areas.
She also called for schools to be safe places where adolescents can talk about their physical, sexual, and mental health without feeling embarrassed or judged and actually get the needed help.
“We also need equal career opportunities and programmes that can be beneficial to us. We are ready to get involved; we want to work with parents, teachers, and health professionals to create activities and initiatives that teach us about health and empower us to speak up for ourselves and each other.”
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