The Association for Fertility and Reproductive Health has said that no fewer than 12million Nigerians are not productive.

The association in a statement ahead of its September 24 to 28 International Conference in Lagos State, said the causes of the infertility varies from different individuals.

The Publicity Secretary of the conference Local Organising Committee, Dr. Tayo Abiara, in the statement on Sunday said, “There are about 12million infertile persons in Nigeria which is almost 10 per cent of the total population.

“To this group of people, any form of access to effective treatment is priority. It is their valid or legitimate right in a democratic society like ours to have this right to life’s treatment.

“The Nigerian cultural background of social isolation of infertile couples has made Assisted Reproductive Technology practice in Nigeria relevant. Children are so important that childlessness is seen as a curse to the family and community.”

Speaking on the theme of the conference, ‘Improving pregnancy rates of In Vitro Fertilisation in Africa’, he explained that more enlightenment was needed on the causes of infertility.

The issues, he said, would be treated at the conference are ethics in IVF, new technologies in IVF, low cost IVF in Nigeria and role of reproductive surgery and quality control.

He added that over 500 delegates from Nigeria, African countries, United Kingdom, United State of America and other western nations would be present.

Abiara said, “Our vision is geared towards the enhancement of quality education service in reproductive health education, with emphasis on fertility services.

“The association seeks to create an awareness among all persons within Nigeria, Africa and abroad, of the importance of reproductive health.

“There will be room for exhibition and over 500 fertility experts and specialist would be in attendance from all over the world. Experts expected are Obstetricians/Gynecologists, Medical Doctors /Physicians, Embryologists, Ultrasonographers, Pharmacists, Medical Lab Scientists/ Technicians, Health Regulators, Nurses , Medical Equipment /Service Providers, Medical Students, Educational Institutions, Medical Associations.”


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