FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
After over three years of implementation, The Challenge Initiative, TCI, Nigeria has formally handed over its family planning programme to the Edo State government for sustained ownership.
The Country Director, Dr Taiwo Johnson made the announcement during a stakeholders meeting on sustaining family planning interventions on Tuesday in Benin.
Johnson noted that the handover marked a significant milestone in their journey with the state government, which started over three and a half years ago.
She described the moment as a transitioning point, signaling a shift in responsibility from TCI to the government for all family planning activities in the state.
“Now that we are transitioning to self-reliance, we expect Edo to take complete ownership of all family planning activities,” she said
She noted that global funding for family planning had reduced, referencing the withdrawal of support by major partners like USAID and other international donors.
She stated that although TCI 2.0 is coming to an end, a new version is expected in 2026, with modalities still under discussion.
Johnson revealed that unlike 2024, the state has not secured any funding for family planning in 2025, stressing that the gap must be addressed urgently.
“No product, no service, even with training, demand generation and media support, if commodities are not available, family planning services will fail,” she emphasised.
She also acknowledged the contributions of other partners collaborating to ensure that Edo’s family planning indices continue to improve.
“Family planning is critical. If properly implemented, it can reduce maternal mortality by as much as 30 percent.”
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole commended TCI for addressing a critical gap in the public health landscape.
He emphasised that with focused intervention in nine local government areas, it has helped Edo improve service delivery and build the capacity of health workers.
“We have seen a measurable increase in contraceptive pre-balance, a stronger referral system and an encouraging reduction in the unmet need for family planning services.
“TCI may be closing shop in terms of direct implementation. But, the seeds they have planted will continue to yield results for years to come.
According to him, it gives women the power to strive, families the freedom to plan and society the opportunity to prosper.
