Risky Behaviours in Adolescents in Nigeria

Factors Influencing Risky Behaviours in Adolescents and Young Persons (AYP)

• Pre-marital sexual activities have gained social acceptance in Nigeria compared to past decades.
• Increased duration of education for young people extends the time between adolescence and marriage, raising opportunities for sexual activities.
• Many adolescents physically mature sexually before achieving necessary mental, emotional, and social skills, affecting their decision-making regarding sexual activity.
• The media, particularly the Internet, significantly influences young people's motivations for engaging in sexual activities.

Other Contributory Factors

• A lack of awareness about the consequences of risky sexual behaviours among AYP hinders informed decisions.
• Parental and policy-maker ambivalence regarding comprehensive sexuality education limits effective development of young individuals.
• Young individuals often feel invulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, contributing to risky behaviours.

Interventions for Improvement

• Reproductive health education should be integrated into the curricula at all educational levels in Nigeria to provide foundational knowledge.
• Both governmental and private sectors are encouraged to enhance young people's access to reproductive health services.

Conclusion

• Adolescents and young persons represent a vital resource for Nigeria's future development.
• Despite general health, some engage in risky behaviours that heighten the risk of infections and premature death.
• Comprehensive interventions are essential to equip AYP with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate adolescence challenges effectively.
• Recommended interventions feature comprehensive sexuality education and improved accessibility to reproductive health services, including contraceptives and STI treatment.