
By Bisola Oduwole-Suleiman
The Comprehensive Health Centre in Alanamu Ward, Ilorin West Local Government, has experienced a surge in family planning (FP) interest, with local residents increasingly embracing various FP methods.
In a discussion with DiamondFM, Nurat Folasade Alasinrin, a family planning provider at the center shared insights into the center’s operations and the community’s attitude toward family planning.

According to Alasinrin, monthly FP user numbers vary, typically ranging between 140 and 180 users. she She however, observed a notable increase in FP acceptance with an average of 15 clients per day, emphasizing that more husbands now support their wives in choosing suitable contraceptive options. “We’re seeing more men encouraging, assisting, and even accompanying their wives to our FP sessions, which shows a shift in the community’s mindset,” she said.
Adolescent uptake of FP methods has also risen, often with parental consent. Alasinrin noted that many adolescents come to the center following past experiences with unintended pregnancies, some of which led to unsafe abortions. In response, parents are taking proactive measures to ensure their children’s reproductive health by seeking FP support.
Alasinrin explained further that information about FP services is shared with mothers during immunization and antenatal programs, while additional awareness is spread through community education and outreach events, often facilitated by The Challenge Initiative (TCI) and their community mobilizers.
Meanwhile, highlighting the benefits and challenges of various methods, Aishat Ibrahim, a five-year FP user, said she initially chose implants but switched to injectables after experiencing some side effects. “I administer the injections myself at home now, and it’s been working well for me,” says Aishat.
Another user, Folake Ajadi, credited her introduction to FP to an antenatal session at the health center. She opted for implants, which she said have effectively prevented unplanned pregnancies, encouraging other women in her community to consider FP, citing its numerous benefits.
As family planning becomes widely accepted in Ilorin West, the Comprehensive Health Centre in Alanamu Ward with the help of TCI continues its work to provide accessible and reliable reproductive health options, helping families make informed choices for their futures.