Educational Awareness Program and the Pratice of Family Planning Amongst Women of Childbrearing Age in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State Nigeria

Promoting family planning (FP) is a critical public health intervention in high-fertility settings like Northern Nigeria. In Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC), educational awareness programs are a key strategy to increase FP uptake among women of childbearing age. However, the relationship between these programs and actual FP practice in this culturally complex and conflict-affected region remains poorly understood. A community-based, cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted. A structured questionnaire was administered to 380 randomly selected women aged 15-49 to collect quantitative data on socio-demographics, FP awareness, and practice. Complementary qualitative data were gathered through 8 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and 15 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with women, health workers, and community leaders to explore underlying perceptions and barriers.  The study found that awareness of FP was high (85%), primarily sourced from health facilities (70%) and radio (55%). However, comprehensive knowledge was low, with only 45% of women able to name three modern methods. Pervasive myths and religious misconceptions significantly hindered acceptance. The modern Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (CPR) was 12.5%, with injectable being the most common method. Quantitative and qualitative data converged to identify the husband’s attitude as the most decisive factor for FP use. Women who discussed FP with their spouses were five times more likely to be users. Low female education and fear of side effects were other major barriers. While educational programs in MMC have successfully created widespread FP awareness, they have been less effective in translating this knowledge into practice due to deep-seated socio-cultural and religious barriers. To increase FP uptake, programs must evolve beyond information dissemination to include targeted strategies for myth-busting, deliberate male involvement, and stronger advocacy through religious and traditional institutions. Empowering women through education and improving client-centered counseling are also essential.