On March 15, 2025, Community & Youth Development Initiatives (CYDI) hosted a powerful two-day Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) training in Owerri, Imo State, bringing together 82 adolescents and young people from diverse backgrounds. The training, held at Gold Crown Hotel & Suites, was part of the AfriYAN and Organon-supported SRHR Watch Party Programme. Participants included young persons with disabilities, LGBTQ+ youth, adolescents living with HIV, and representatives from various youth networks. The sessions focused on busting myths about family planning, understanding contraceptive options, and building emotional intelligence around reproductive health. Expert facilitators like Mrs. Edith Ndukuba from the Imo State Ministry of Health and Nlemchi Ashiegbu from Marie Stopes International provided engaging, inclusive, and practical knowledge, including live demonstrations and interactive Q&A sessions.

Leading up to the training, CYDI coordinated a strategic planning meeting with the Imo State Family Planning Coordinator and mobilized support from key youth organizations through dedicated WhatsApp groups and virtual outreach. As part of the sensitization campaign, CYDI also co-hosted a vibrant social media live chat titled “Debunking Myths and Presenting Facts about Family Planning” on X (formerly Twitter), which attracted widespread youth engagement. The initiative was marked by strong partnerships with civil society groups and health professionals, ensuring that accurate, youth-friendly information was shared and that participants were equipped with educational resources, including pamphlets and condoms donated by the Ministry of Health and MSI Nigeria.

This event represents a significant stride in expanding access to family planning information and services among young people in Imo State. Post-training evaluations revealed a remarkable increase in participants’ knowledge and confidence in making informed SRHR decisions. CYDI’s approach—centered on inclusion, empowerment, and continuous engagement—has laid a foundation for sustained impact. The organization plans to maintain communication with participants, support their access to family planning services, and continue its advocacy for youth-focused reproductive health through digital and community-based platforms.