MSI Nigeria discusses family planning with Chief Imam and Islamic Clerics
In Nigeria, religious leaders have the power to shape social and cultural norms – which can have a huge impact on how reproductive healthcare is viewed in communities.
As trusted sources of information, religious leaders can play an instrumental role in addressing stigma and misconceptions around family planning. In turn, their support can increase community acceptance and uptake.
As part of MSI Nigeria’s advocacy efforts, the team paid an advocacy visit to the Chief Imam of Benin Central Mosque, Sheik Enabulele, and his council of Islamic clerics.
After conducting the Friday Jumaat service, Sheik Enabulele and the Council of Islamic Leaders met the MSI Nigeria team. Sheik Enabulele and his wife, Hajiya Enabulele, engaged in a reflective conversation about child spacing, reproductive health, and the need for stronger male support and engagement.
Sheik Enabulele shared religious insights about the importance of child spacing, stating that it is accepted in Islam. He pledged a partnership with MSI Nigeria, and spoke of strategies Muslim communities have created to address various sexual and reproductive health issues.
His wife, Hajiya, is a proud advocate of reproductive health. She expressed gratitude to MSI Nigeria for prioritizing the welfare of women by ensuring access to family planning. She also suggested activities she would like to organize with Muslim women on the importance of family planning.
The meeting concluded with plans to engage with men and women in their community in partnership with MSI Nigeria.
