Educationists and teachers across Nigeria emphasize the importance of introducing sex education early to equip young people with knowledge that promotes healthy choices and reduces cases of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse.
By Bukola Kuteyi
In a renewed call for awareness, educationists and concerned Nigerians have urged the introduction of early and comprehensive sex education in schools to promote healthy lifestyles, reduce teenage pregnancy, and protect adolescents from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
According to experts, early sex education plays a crucial role in helping young people make informed decisions about their sexual health and relationships, ultimately reducing health and social risks.
Mrs. Adetoro Abeeb, a public school teacher in Lagos, highlighted the numerous benefits of early sex education.
“Sex education empowers students to make informed decisions about their sexual health, relationships, and well-being. It also reduces the rate of teenage pregnancy. Studies have shown that comprehensive sex education leads to a decrease in teenage pregnancy rates,” Abeeb said.
Another teacher, Mrs. Kemi Oke, emphasized the growing importance of the subject in Nigeria, especially in light of rising cases of sexual abuse and exploitation among minors.
“Early sex education in Nigeria is becoming increasingly important given the alarming rise in child sexual abuse. The National Sexuality Education Curriculum introduced in 2002 encourages parents to start sex education at home. It helps prevent abuse, teaches children about body boundaries, and promotes consent,” Oke explained.
Education stakeholders continue to advocate for the integration of comprehensive sex education into the national curriculum and parental involvement to ensure that children grow up informed, confident, and protected.
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