Health experts and advocates have called for a fact-based and compassionate approach to abortion discourse in Nigeria, dispelling long-held misconceptions surrounding its legality, morality, and health implications. 
 
They made the call at the weekend in Lagos during a one-day symposium, organised by Leadership Initiative for Youth Empowerment (LIFE) with the theme, “Transforming Narratives, Empowering Care: Global Action for Safe Abortion.”

The programme harped on increased awareness of safe abortion among young women to strengthen sexual and reproductive health as well as challenge stigma, promote compassionate care, and advance access to safe and legal services.
 
Executive Director, Centre for Bridging Health Gaps (CBHGaps), Dr. Moriam Jagun, emphasised that abortion remains largely restricted under Nigerian law, permitted only when necessary to save the life of the woman.
 
Represented by the Communication Specialist, Damilola Danbaba, the ED lamented widespread misinformation, noting that many Nigerians wrongly believe abortion is fully legal or widely practised without restriction.
 
“Abortion is not legal in Nigeria. It is restricted to certain medical situations, especially to save the life of the woman. There is a very big misconception about abortion, even about who gets abortions. It’s not just young, unmarried girls; many married women and mothers also seek abortions,” he explained.
 
Jagun added that myths surrounding abortion, such as claims that it causes infertility or that terminating a pregnancy could destroy a future leader, are unfounded and harmful.
 
“If abortion is done safely by medical professionals, following the right guidelines, everything will be fine. Unsafe abortions are what lead to complications and infertility,” he said.Damilola also addressed societal fears that legalising abortion would encourage promiscuity among young women. 
 
According to him, evidence suggests that access to safe abortion services gives women choices and protects their health rather than promoting reckless behaviour.
 
Similarly, Executive Director, Action Health Incorporated (AHI), Uwem Esiet, who was represented by Dr. Sholakunmi Olusanya, underscored the need to raise public awareness on the legal frameworks guiding abortion in Nigeria.
 
In her remark, Consultant Gynaecologist and member of the Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecologists of Nigeria (SOGON), Dr. Modupe Adedeji, reinforced that pregnancy, even in its healthiest form, carries risks.  She emphasised that the decision to terminate a pregnancy should always prioritise the woman’s life and mental health.