Strengthening Adolescent Health Policy and Clinical Services in Nigeria: Evidence from Facility-Based Data

Joshua Olusola Ogunniyi; Bilqis Wuraola Alatishe-Muhammad; Oladimeji Akeem Bolarinwa; Hadijat Olaide Raji; Abiodun Adeniran; Sidiqat  Olaoti Ibrahim; Monsurat Ijaiya

Joshua Olusola Ogunniyi Doctor, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Bilqis Wuraola Alatishe-Muhammad Doctor, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Oladimeji Akeem Bolarinwa Professor, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Hadijat Olaide Raji Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Abiodun Adeniran Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Sidiqat Olaoti Ibrahim Professor, Adolescent Unit, Primary Healthcare Center, Okelele, Nigeria
Monsurat Ijaiya Professor, Adolescent Unit, Primary Healthcare Center, Okelele, Nigeria

Keywords: Adolescent health, Adolescent-friendly health services, Health policy implementation, Nigeria

Abstract

Adolescent health plays a vital role in population wellbeing and national development, yet it remains insufficiently prioritised within routine healthcare delivery in Nigeria and many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study reviewed facility-based health records of adolescents collected between September and December 2025 to identify common health conditions and gaps in service delivery. Records from forty-two adolescents aged 15–18 years showed that sexual and reproductive health concerns were most frequent, with menstrual disorders—particularly dysmenorrhoea—being the leading complaint. Cases of unplanned pregnancy and incomplete abortion reflected persistent barriers to youth-friendly contraceptive information and confidential reproductive care. Additional presentations included preventable acute illnesses and emerging psychosocial and mental health challenges, indicating delayed health-seeking behaviour and limited adolescent-responsive services. The findings highlight a critical disconnect between national adolescent health policies and their implementation within clinical settings. Expanding adolescent-friendly services, integrating mental health screening, and strengthening provider capacity are essential for improving adolescent health outcomes and advancing Nigeria’s human capital development.

DOI: https://doi.org/.10.24321/2349.2880.202606

How to cite this article:
Ogunniyi J O, Alatishe-Muhammad B W, Bolarinwa O A, Raji H O, Adeniran A, Ibrahim S O, Ijaiya M. Strengthening Adolescent Health Policy and Clinical Services in Nigeria: Evidence from Facility-Based Data. Ind J Youth Adol Health. 2026;13(2):12-14.

Author Biographies

Oladimeji Akeem Bolarinwa, Professor, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Ilorin, Nigeria

Hadijat Olaide Raji, Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ilorin, Nigeria

Abiodun Adeniran, Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ilorin, Nigeria

Sidiqat Olaoti Ibrahim , Professor, Adolescent Unit, Primary Healthcare Center, Okelele, Nigeria

Monsurat Ijaiya , Professor, Adolescent Unit, Primary Healthcare Center, Okelele, Nigeria

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