Clinical Protocol for the Health and Development of Adolescent and Young People in Nigeria
Act · Health
Guidelines provide a clinical protocol for healthcare providers to deliver health services to adolescents and young people aged 10 to 24. They target healthcare workers, programme coordinators, and the youth themselves. This improves access to quality health services.
Clinical Protocol for the Health and Development of Adolescent and Young People in Nigeria
What Is This Policy?
A clinical protocol that guides healthcare providers in delivering age-appropriate health services to adolescents and young people aged 10 to 24, addressing their physical, mental, sexual, and reproductive health needs.
Who Does It Target?
Healthcare providers in primary and secondary facilities Adolescent and youth health programme coordinators Young people aged 10 to 24 School health services and community health workers
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Improve the quality of health services for adolescents and young people by standardizing clinical approaches, reducing barriers to access, and ensuring confidentiality and a welcoming environment.
Key Features
Sexual and Reproductive Health: Guidance on contraception counselling, STI management, and maternal care for young mothers Mental Health: Screening and referral protocols for depression, anxiety, and substance use Nutrition: Assessment and management of adolescent nutritional needs, including eating disorders and anaemia Injury and Violence Prevention: Protocols for managing victims of gender-based violence and substance abuse Confidentiality Standards: Guidance on maintaining privacy and building trust with young clients
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active in designated adolescent-friendly health facilities Coverage: Primary and secondary health facilities with adolescent health programmes Lead Agency: Federal Ministry of Health, Adolescent and Young People Health Unit Partners: UNFPA, UNICEF, WHO, Society for Adolescent Health of Nigeria
How to Access
The protocol is available through health facilities that provide adolescent-friendly services. Contact the Reproductive Health Division of the Federal Ministry of Health Access through UNFPA and UNICEF programme materials Available at state-level adolescent health training workshops
Official Resources
Website: health.gov.ng Contact: Adolescent and Young People Health Unit, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja
Legal Framework
Issued under the authority of the Federal Ministry of Health pursuant to the National Health Act 2014 and Section 17 of the 1999 Constitution on health objectives. Aligns with the National Adolescent Health Policy, the National Reproductive Health Policy, the WHO Adolescent Health and Development guidelines, and the Operational Guidelines for Youth-Friendly Health Services. Consistent with UN Convention on the Rights of the Child provisions on health.