Community Perception of Family Planning Services and Contraceptive Use Among Women in Katsina State, North West Nigeria

Despite Nigeria's high total fertility rate and significant unmet need for family planning, contraceptive prevalence remains among the lowest in sub-Saharan Africa, with North West states recording the least favourable indicators. This study explores community perceptions of family planning services and contraceptive use among married women of reproductive age in Katsina State. A descriptive cross-sectional design is employed, drawing a sample of 300 women from six communities across three local government areas through multistage sampling. Semi-structured questionnaires and key informant interviews with community leaders and health workers are used to gather data on awareness, attitudes, religious beliefs, spousal influence, and access barriers. Quantitative data are analysed using SPSS while qualitative data are subjected to thematic analysis. The 2021 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey records a modern contraceptive prevalence rate of under 5 percent in Katsina State, reflecting deeply entrenched socio-cultural and religious opposition to family planning. The Theory of Planned Behaviour informs the study's framework by examining how subjective norms and perceived behavioural control shape contraceptive decision-making. Findings will identify the most salient barriers to uptake, providing a basis for culturally sensitive health communication and male engagement strategies. The study contributes to evidence needed for strengthening family planning programming under the national Voluntary Family Planning Policy. Keywords: family planning, contraceptive use, community perception, Katsina State, North West Nigeria.