By Ahmad Saka
A health awareness group, Saqafatul Islam Foundation Nigeria (SIFN), has called on the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, to clarify issues surrounding reproductive health policy integrity, alleged external influence, and growing public concerns.
In an open letter signed by the Foundation’s Secretary, Muhammad Awwal Ahmadu, and made available to reporters in Bauchi, the group requested the Minister’s comments on what it described as a matter of increasing public anxiety.
The letter stated: "As patriotic stakeholders, we request the Minister’s comments on a matter of growing public concern: Nigeria’s fertility rate, the integrity of reproductive health policy discussions, and the implications of recent international disclosures for public trust."
SIFN noted that recent public reporting and online commentary, including references to materials allegedly linked to the Jeffrey Epstein matter, have generated concern among Nigerians about possible foreign interest in Nigeria’s demographic outcomes. While the Foundation said it does not claim knowledge of the authenticity or legal meaning of circulating communications, it stressed that public perception of potential external agenda-setting warrants reassurance from Nigeria’s health leadership.
The group emphasized that Nigeria’s fertility rate is frequently discussed in global public health circles, stressing that any policy relating to fertility, family planning, maternal health, or reproductive services must be grounded in Nigerian law, public health evidence, human rights standards, and the autonomy and informed consent of Nigerian women.
To strengthen public confidence, SIFN requested clarification on several key issues, formal mechanisms which exist within the Ministry to ensure that reproductive health and family planning policies are developed solely in Nigeria’s public interest and insulated from undue influence by donors, private foundations, or foreign policy interests.
The group urged the Ministry to publish detailed information on key partnerships and donor-supported programmes in reproductive and maternal health, including governance structures, oversight mechanisms, and accountability standards.
Without alleging wrongdoing, SIFN asked the Ministry to clarify its position on any attempts by external individuals or organisations to frame Nigeria’s fertility rate as a target for “population control” rather than addressing it as a voluntary, ethical public health matter. Individuals mentioned in public discourse include Jeffrey Epstein, Thomas Pritzker, and others.
On the issue of billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates, the Foundation stated that while he has long been regarded as supportive of global health initiatives, public reporting about interactions between Jeffrey Epstein and Bill Gates has heightened sensitivities. It also noted the Minister’s longstanding global health engagements.
Addressing ethical leadership, SIFN said resignation is a serious matter that should not be demanded lightly. However, it noted that in some jurisdictions, officials have stepped aside when controversies risk undermining institutional credibility.
SIFN stressed that its primary concern is the integrity of Nigeria’s public health policy process and the dignity, autonomy, and trust owed to Nigerian women, particularly in the North East where health vulnerabilities are pronounced and distrust of public programmes can have serious consequences.
The Foundation added that many Nigerian parents have found recent reports and related commentary disturbing, especially where women appear to be discussed primarily in demographic terms. It said clear and factual communication from the Minister’s office is urgently needed to address public concerns.
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