Rising Rate of Teenage Pregnancy in Akwa Ibom Sparks Concern

Strategic Insights -

The lawmaker representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Moses Essien, has raised concerns over the alarming rate of teenage pregnancy in the state, saying it is detrimental to the future of young girls. Essien noted that girls between the ages of 13 and 17 are major culprits caught in the web of unwanted pregnancies across the state, leading to school dropouts. He called on the state government and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to launch widespread enlightenment campaigns to educate teenagers on reproductive health and tackle the issue of school dropouts caused by early pregnancies.

Key Takeaways:

  • The lawmaker, Hon. Moses Essien, describes the rising rate of teenage pregnancy in Akwa Ibom as "alarming and detrimental to the future of young girls."
  • Young girls between the ages of 13 and 17 are major culprits caught in the web of unwanted pregnancies across the state, leading to school dropouts.
  • Essien cautioned parents and guardians to be alive to their responsibilities by insulating the girl children from the vagaries of society through proper care.
  • He called for urgent action to address the growing menace of teenage pregnancy in the state.
  • Essien advocated for widespread enlightenment campaigns to educate teenagers on reproductive health and tackle the issue of school dropouts caused by early pregnancies.
  • He tabled a motion before the House to promote maternal and child health by extending maternity leave for nursing mothers from three to six months and introducing paternity leave for fathers.
  • The current administration has increased health sector funding from 4-5 percent to 7.5 percent, but the figure still falls short of the 15 percent benchmark recommended by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Statistics:

  • The 31 local government areas in Akwa Ibom are affected by the rising rate of teenage pregnancy.
  • The ideal age for children to engage in family responsibilities is not until they are mentally and emotionally prepared.
  • The government has increased health sector funding from 4-5 percent to 7.5 percent in the current administration.
  • The 15 percent benchmark for health sector funding recommended by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has not been met.
  • Exclusive breastfeeding for six months enhances child growth, strengthens mother-child bonding, and promotes overall health.

Sources:

  • Leader, "Lawmaker Raises Concern Over Teenage Pregnancy in Akwa Ibom," 2025.
  • AllAfrica.com, "Lawmaker Urges State Government to Take Action Against Rising Rate of Teenage Pregnancy," 2025.