The Traffic

Trump’s Order Sparks Family Planning Crisis in Bauchi and Beyond

By Achimi Muktar

A recent executive order by former U.S. President Donald Trump has triggered a major crisis in Bauchi and other Nigerian states, disrupting the supply of family planning commodities and putting millions of women at risk.

The suspension of activities by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)—a key provider of reproductive health support in Nigeria—has created an alarming shortage of contraceptives in public health facilities.

Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board, raised the alarm on Thursday during an advocacy visit by the Civil Society Organisation, Journalists for Public Health and Development Initiative (J4PHDI).

“USAID has played a critical role in ensuring steady access to family planning commodities in our healthcare facilities. But with the suspension of their activities, many clinics are now experiencing stockouts, despite the rising demand for these services,” Mohammed lamented.

What’s Happening?

For years, USAID has been a major supplier of contraceptives and reproductive health services across Nigeria. However, Trump’s decision to suspend its operations has created an unexpected ripple effect—especially in states like Bauchi, where access to affordable healthcare is already limited.

With USAID’s exit, local health centers are struggling to meet the growing demand for birth control methods, leaving many women vulnerable to unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortions.

Government’s Next Move

Despite the crisis, Bauchi State health officials are scrambling to fill the gap.

“We are currently holding emergency meetings to ensure that family planning commodities reach all healthcare facilities across the state,” Mohammed assured.

However, experts warn that without sustainable intervention and alternative funding sources, the situation could escalate—leading to higher maternal mortality rates and reversing Nigeria’s progress in reproductive health.

What’s at Stake?

Increased unwanted pregnancies due to lack of contraceptive access

Higher rates of unsafe abortions, especially in rural areas

Disruptions in maternal health programs, worsening Nigeria’s already high maternal mortality rate

Potential spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if condoms remain out of stock

What’s Next?

While Bauchi State is taking emergency steps, the bigger question remains—will Nigeria’s government step in to replace USAID’s role in funding family planning services?

As families struggle with the fallout of Trump’s order, millions of women across Nigeria anxiously await a solution. Will the government step up, or will this crisis spiral out of control?