By Tunde Omolehin, Sokoto
The Challenge Initiative, a global urban reproductive health initiative, has called for continued investment, political will, and community-driven action to ensure family planning services reach every woman, man, and young person who needs them- no matter where they live.
Ms. Suliyat Eletu, Program Officer at Development Communications Network (DEVCOM), stated this in a statement to commemorate Safe Motherhood Day 2025 under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.”
She emphasized the need to improve healthcare services, reach marginalized communities, and confront the myths and barriers that prevent access to reproductive health care.
“As Nigeria celebrates a quiet but powerful revolution safeguarding the lives of mothers and children: the rise in access to family planning (FP) and childbirth spacing services across the country.
The statement also notes that TCI’s support has proven that states can lead their own reproductive health transformations.
“With growing political will, sustainable funding, and grassroots engagement, Nigeria is closer than ever to making safe motherhood not just a goal — but a guarantee.
“At the heart of this progress is The Challenge Initiative (TCI) — a proven model that puts local governments in the driver’s seat to sustainably scale reproductive health solutions.
The statement further said iIn partnership with over a dozen state governments, TCI is making motherhood safer, families healthier, and futures brighter.
“Safe motherhood starts before the first contraction — it begins with informed choices, timely access to family planning, and a community that supports women at every step of their reproductive journey.
“What we are seeing in Nigeria today is a bold move from awareness to action, from promises to programs that truly save lives.” says Dr. Taiwo Johnson, Country Team Lead, TCI Nigeria.
