Kaduna Marks Adolescent Health Week, Highlights Progress and Ongoing Concerns
By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board (KSPHCB), in partnership with UNICEF, Society for Family Health (SFH), Global Affairs Canada, and other development partners, has joined the global commemoration of the 2025 International Adolescent Health Week (IAHW) with a call for greater investment in adolescent well-being.
Held at Dalet Girls’ Secondary School, Kawo, the event brought together students, health workers, and civil society representatives to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing young people as they navigate adolescence, a critical stage for shaping lifelong health and behavioral outcomes.
The 2025 IAHW, themed “Thriving Inside & Out: Strengthening Mental & Physical Health,” focuses on helping adolescents build resilience, adopt healthy lifestyles, and make informed choices.
Bilkisu Tanimu Zailani, Adolescent Health Development Desk Officer at KSPHCB, said the week-long activities are aimed at improving adolescents’ understanding of their physical and emotional needs.
“We are engaging young people on how to take care of their bodies and minds. We’ve discussed reproductive health, mental health, hygiene, and prevention of infections, including HIV/AIDS. The goal is to help them grow into confident, responsible, and healthy adults,” she explained.
Zailani commended the Kaduna State Government for prioritizing adolescent health and acknowledged the contributions of UNICEF, SFH, ECAPH, and other partners in sustaining outreach programs and youth-friendly services across the state.
While participants celebrated the growing awareness and openness around adolescent health, they also expressed concern about the limited access to counseling and mental health services, as well as persistent social stigma around topics like reproductive health and emotional well-being.
Rita Rachael Para, a member of the Adolescent Health Forum, noted that while programs like IAHW are making an impact, more consistent support is needed for adolescents to put what they learn into practice.
“Many young people now understand more about their bodies and emotions,” she said. “But some still struggle to find safe spaces to talk or get help. We need more youth-friendly corners and counselors in schools and communities so that no one feels alone.”
The event featured interactive sessions, health talks, and demonstrations focused on nutrition, mental health awareness, and positive lifestyle habits. Facilitators encouraged students to ask questions freely and take responsibility for their health choices.
As activities continue throughout the week, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to creating a supportive environment where adolescents can thrive — physically, mentally, and socially.
“This campaign is helping to break barriers. When adolescents understand themselves and have the right support, they are better equipped to stay healthy, stay in school, and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” Zailani added.
