“WARNING: The Alarming Rise of Student Mothers in Nigerian Universities”

As a student affairs practitioner, I have witnessed a disturbing trend in Nigerian universities: undergraduate students, particularly females, getting married and pregnant during their first or second year of studies. This phenomenon not only affects the students’ academic performance but also poses significant health risks to both the mother and the unborn child.

The Risks:

Pregnancy and childbirth during undergraduate studies can lead to:

For the Mother:

1. Academic disruption and potential dropout

2. Increased risk of maternal mortality

3. Health complications, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and hypertension

4. Emotional stress and anxiety

5. Limited career opportunities and financial instability

For the Unborn Child:

1. Premature birth and low birth weight

2. Increased risk of birth defects and developmental delays

3. Potential for neglect or inadequate care due to the mother’s academic responsibilities

4. Emotional and psychological impacts due to maternal stress

5. Reduced access to healthcare and nutritional resources

The Consequences:

This trend has far-reaching consequences, including:

1. Perpetuating the cycle of poverty and limiting social mobility

2. Undermining the pursuit of higher education and personal growth

3. Compromising the health and well-being of both mother and child

4. Reinforcing harmful societal norms and gender stereotypes

A Call to Action:

To address this issue, I urge:

1. Education Ministers and Commissioners to develop policies discouraging early marriage and pregnancy among undergraduate students

2. Universities to provide support services, such as counseling, healthcare, and childcare facilities

3. Parents and guardians to prioritize their daughters’ education and well-being

4. Students to prioritize their academic goals and postpone marriage and pregnancy until after completing their undergraduate studies

Conclusion:

Early marriage and pregnancy among undergraduate students in Nigerian universities is a pressing concern. It is crucial that we acknowledge the risks and consequences and work collectively to create a supportive environment that prioritizes students’ education, health, and well-being.

Written By: Gabriel Chibuikem Eze (Prof.)