“Sometimes, I feel we are treated as customers”: experiences of internally displaced adolescents and young people with sexual and reproductive health services needs in Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Nigeria has faced numerous humanitarian challenges, from= conflicts and natural disasters to large-scale displacement. For adolescents and young people caught in these situations, accessing sexual and reproductive health information and services is often limited, if not impossible. These challenges are especially pronounced in internally displaced persons camps, where the lack of sexual and reproductive health resources leaves young people vulnerable to a host of risks like unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and gender-based violence. Our study sought to explore the lived experiences of adolescents and young people on the availability and accessibility of SRH services within internally displaced persons settings in Nigeria. Methods: Our qualitative study, conducted in one internally displaced persons’ camp in Bakassi Local Government, Cross River, Nigeria, employed adolescents and young participants (15–24 years) through focus group discussions and interviews. Transcripts of the recordings were transcribed verbatim and exported to NVivo version 14 for analysis. Content analysis was done using inductive and deductive approaches. Results: Despite the availability of sexual and reproductive health services, participants described significant gaps in service delivery, including being treated as customers with choices, inadequacy of SRH information and services in the camp, and sensitivity of SRH services for adolescent teen mothers. Male participants reported experiences of gender bias and feeling overlooked or unsupported. Experience of gender-based violence and lack of support, especially during unwanted pregnancies, were major challenges for girls and women in the camps. Conclusion: Our study reinforces the need for equitable sexual and reproductive health services, with a strong emphasis on accessible resources for men, and vulnerable adolescents and young people. Efforts should be geared towards improving gender-based violence reporting mechanisms and ensuring adequate support services while implementing adequate interventions to support vulnerable populations within the camp environment.