About Our Work In FCT Abuja
Healthcare for the displaced in FCT Abuja
Nigeria currently has the 3rd largest number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Africa, with 3.3million displaced from their homes but living in their country borders. In Nigeria internal displacement is due to overlapping and intersecting problems including protracted violence and climate change. Boko Haram and other non-state armed groups, alongside clashes between herders and farmers have pushed Nigerians out of their homes, especially from parts of North-East Nigeria and the country’s Middle Belt, but increasingly also in North-West Nigeria.
Over 70% of the population displaced are Women and children. Existing government and humanitarian initiatives focus on water and sanitation, food, and security for IDPs in Northeast Nigeria, with little or no formal support for IDPs residing in FCT Abuja.
Ongoing interventions in the crisis have not prioritised sexual and reproductive health and there continues to be inadequate resources for primary healthcare provision. IDPs experience a disproportionate burden of sexual and reproductive health problems compared to non-IDPs, this is reflected in higher rates of maternal mortality, unintended pregnancies, adolescent pregnancies and sexually- transmitted infections. Psychological distress related to conflict and displacement is reported.
Our community based health services support IDP’s and other marginalized groups. Our team works within displaced communities to raise awareness of reproductive health problems, HIV & STIs, reduce new infections, reduce late diagnoses, improve access to regular testing and challenge stigma and prejudice. Our activities include training, workshops, information sessions, one-to-one information and advice, group talks for women and girls on family planning, unintended pregancies and the health implications of early marriage.
We also provide health education on cancers and cancer screening: breast, cervical, ovarian and prostate. We encourage uptake of TB screening and provide support to individuals with TB.