Integrated economic and sexual and reproductive health programming among married and unmarried adolescent girls in Nigeria: Results from a quasi-experimental cohort study

4 min read (PDF)
Download

Authors:
Mary Phillips, Roselyn Odeh, Meghan Cutherell, Abednego Musau, Claire W. Rothschild, Albert Tele, Jenna Grzeslo, Alexis Coppola, Yusuf H. Wada, Noel Tonka, Alhaji Alhassan Bulama, Kehinde Atoloye, Olusesan A. Makinde

First Published in: PLOS One – August 25, 2025 | DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0330420

Background:
Adolescent girls in sub-Saharan Africa face economic and health disadvantages, including early marriage, school dropout, and limited opportunities. Economic empowerment combined with sexual and reproductive health (SRH) programming may improve their wellbeing.

Methods:
Quasi-experimental cohort study in Kaduna (married girls) and Ogun (mostly unmarried girls), Nigeria. Compared adolescent girls (15–19 years) receiving an integrated SRH + economic empowerment program with those receiving SRH only. Data collected at baseline and after 9 months.

Results:

  • Economic outcomes: Increased likelihood of earning money (Kaduna +35pp; Ogun +58pp), more contributions to household expenses, and asset purchasing (notable in Ogun).

  • SRH outcomes: Significant rise in contraceptive use in Kaduna; increased intent to use contraception in Ogun.

  • Findings varied by state due to differences in marital status and social context.

Conclusion:
Layered economic empowerment and SRH programs can positively impact adolescent girls’ financial independence and reproductive health. Tailoring to local contexts (married vs. unmarried girls, north vs. south Nigeria) is critical for effectiveness.