THE IMPACT OF HEALTH EXTENSION PROGRAMS ON ADULTS ATTITUDES TOWARD’S FAMILY PLANNING IN JOS SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF PLATEAU STATE

ABSTRACT This study examined the impact of Health Extension Programs (HEPs) on influencing adultattitudes toward family planning in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria.Despite the recognized importance of family planning for maternal and child health, its uptakeremains low in many Nigerian communities due to entrenched cultural, religious, andinformational barriers. Using a descriptive survey design, the study collected data from 90purposively selected respondents, including married men and women of reproductive age andhealth extension workers, through structured questionnaires Findings reveal a high level ofawareness (94%) and positive attitudes toward family planning, largely attributed to the effortsof HEPs. Trust in health extension workers was significant (94%), indicating their crucial role ascredible sources of information. However. several barriers impede fuller adoption, includingInadequate funding (85%), shortage of trained personnel (82%). logistical constraints (87%), and persistent cultural and religious resistance (83%). The study concluded that while HEPs havebeen effective in raising awareness and shaping positive attitudes, their sustainability and impactare limited by systemic and socio-cultural challenges. Recommendations include increasedgovernment funding, enhanced training and recruitment of health workers, strategic engagementof community and religious leaders, use of local languages in sensitization campaigns, andimproved logistics for outreach. These measures are essential for strengthening family planninginitiatives and improving reproductive health outcomes in Jos South and similar settings. Keywords: Family Planning. Health Extension Programs, Adult Attitudes, Jos South, Barriers, Reproductive Health.