Appraisal of the Effects of Customary Practices on Reproductive Health Rights of Nigerian Women

Abstract

Reproductive health rights, though an emerging rights issue, border on human rights, sexual rights, population control and development rights.  Customary practices in Nigeria seem to contextualize all activities including reproductive health rights.  This research proved the enormity of the weight of customs and norms on Nigerians with regards to reproduction especially on females who appeared to have no say on the issue of reproduction.  Such customs include widow inheritance, polygyny/polygamy, girl child marriage and female genital mutilation.  Maternal mortality ratio and child mortality rates remain high even in this 21^st Century.   Suggestions are proffered on the need  for equal rights to reproduction by males and females, better family planning methods,  provision and  access to functional and accessible health facilities for all persons and demystifying the customary beliefs and practices which impede women’s rights to reproduction.

Key Words: Customary Practices, Reproductive Health Rights, Widow Inheritance, Girl Child Marriage.