TCI Urges Investment in Family Planning to Address Population Surge in Akwa Ibom

As Nigeria grapples with the growing pressure of rapid population increase, The Challenge Initiative (TCI) has called on stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State to prioritize sustained investment in family planning and inclusive health policies.

In a statement marking World Population Day 2025, TCI’s State Program Manager, Obasesam Edet, highlighted the urgency of integrating population issues into the state’s long-term development and economic planning frameworks.

Edet emphasized that voluntary family planning remains one of the most cost-effective tools for managing population growth in resource-limited settings.

“While population growth can be a catalyst for economic productivity, if not matched with adequate investment in health systems, education, and social infrastructure, it may exacerbate poverty, increase disease burden, and strain already limited public services,” he said.

According to the statement, unchecked population growth has led to overcrowded health facilities and limited access to maternal and child health services, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups like women, children, and the elderly.

“A growing population, when left unregulated, places pressure on public health infrastructure,” Edet warned, noting poor health outcomes as a mounting concern.

TCI called for:

• Increased budget allocation to health, particularly for family planning commodity procurement

• Timely release of funds to relevant health programs

• Public-private partnerships to scale sustainable solutions

• Use of demographic data to guide program design and resource distribution

Edet stressed the need for multi-sectoral collaboration to ensure health systems are equipped to handle demographic pressures while advancing equity and economic growth.

“By embracing sustained investments, inclusive policies, and collaborative approaches, governments, donors, and stakeholders can transform the burden of population growth into a driving force for health equity, economic development, and national prosperity.”