The right to sexual health information; Engaging the public in Nigeria through the use of print media
For 6 years now, I have maintained a weekly Health Interactive column in a national daily newspaper in Nigeria ‘Daily Trust’ that provides factual information to readers on diverse range of health problems. Although the column’s commitment is to address readers’ health concerns, however analysis of the page showed that over 80% of the questions asked were related to Sexual/Reproductive Health Problems.
Objective of the paper:
1. To present 6 years analyzed data of the Health Interactive Column that revealed readers demand to sexual health information.
2. To engage the participants on the rights of the Nigerian public to sexual health information and measures that will address such rights
The method adopted was to allow readers to ask questions. With respect to analysis , the author used MS Excels, developed frequency tables and charts for presentation. 72% of the people asking questions were within the age bracket of 18 -35 years. Over 80% of questions asked by readers were related to Sexual Health Problems and the column on weekly basis could only cater for 25 % of the total questions asked due to limited space. Readers apart from asking questions also demanded to be counseled one-on-one by the author or referred to a sexual health counselor and/or therapist. The demand by the Nigerian public especially young people to Sexual Health Information is overwhelming and cannot be neglected. It needs concerted effort by the government and development partners to bridge that gap.
