Amaka and her husband Segun used to be so enthusiastic at the prospect of having a large family. But then, after the birth of their fifth child, this enthusiasm turned into apprehension as each day passed by. The increasing cost of living was making things so difficult that the pair could hardly afford to pay for basic needs such as food, school fees, and health care. What had been a quite adequate monthly budget, stretching comfortably across their family needs, could barely meet two weeks of expenses. And the situation was getting worse as Naira continued losing value.
The case of Amaka is not unique to her in the prevailing economic situation in Nigeria. Many families have to keep up with the less-than-friendly reality of inflation, escalating food prices, and rising school fees. The devaluation of the Naira has been persistent, to a point where even minor things, such as groceries and fuel, become a problem to purchase. For parents with more than one child, pressure is intense.
With each additional child, the economic demands increase. Food alone, especially nutritious meals that are a must for the kids to grow, has turned out to be a luxury for many. Good nutrition is usually replaced by whatever can be afforded, thus adversely impacting the health and development of the children.
Besides this, education, seen by most as the key to life, becomes increasingly unaffordable with each passing school term. Many parents, with the cost of tuition, books, and uniforms, have to make that devastating choice as to which child to send to school over another or go for a cheaper school.
Family planning is not about controlling birth rates; it is about being considerate of a decision that is best for your family. It is about making sure that parents can provide for the children they have, without sinking into financial despair. With proper planning, families will be better off managing their scarce resources in order to ensure that each child gets enough attention, education, and care. In today’s economic situation, where every Naira counts, this type of planning is not just advisable but actually essential.
The fact is, when family size grows beyond the control of the parents, it ripples: stress grows, tension mounts, and quality of life reduces. It is not only about putting food on the table, but also healthcare, schooling, clothing, and a continuing, stable, safe environment for children.
Family planning in these struggling times enables parents to secure a decent future for their families. By ensuring that they only have the number of children they can appropriately take care of, the financial burdens become less heavy and their children can lead decent lives. All parents want the best for their children, and at times, the best thing they can do is ensure each one of them is welcomed into this world under the right circumstances that will meet all their needs.
In this economy, where too many families are living on the edge, family planning provides a lifeline for managing the cruel financial realities of today while building a better future for our next generation.
