Contraceptive use among women of reproductive age in Northwestern Nigeria remains notably low compared to other regions of the country and neighboring African nations. This study examines the socio-cultural and religious influences that shape family planning practices in the region, drawing on data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) and relevant literature. Findings reveal that while limited education, spousal consent, restricted healthcare access, and economic hardship contribute to low uptake, socio-cultural norms exert the strongest influence. Cultural expectations of high fertility and male dominance in reproductive decision-making overshadow religious teachings, as the predominant religion in the region does not explicitly forbid contraceptive use. Our research concludes that engaging religious and community leaders in awareness campaigns is essential to dispel misconceptions, promote informed choices, and improve reproductive health outcomes in Northwestern Nigeria.

Worldwide, the prevalence of overweight and obesity due to lifestyle is on the rise. Numerous health problems, including metabolic disorders, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases, are significantly correlated with it. This study evaluated the protective effects of selected varieties of Solanum lycopersicum on liver and kidney markers in albino rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD). A total of twenty-five healthy male albino rats weighing between (150–180 g) were fed high fat diet for the first four (4) weeks, and rats weighing above 300g were randomly divided into five groups of five rats each for another four (4) weeks. Group 1 served as the normal control group, Group 2 served as the negative control (rats fed a high-fat diet only), Group 3 was administered the standard drug (5mg/kg Lovastatin), Groups 4 and 5 animals were administered 200mg/kg body weight of two different varieties of Solanum lycopersicum. After 4 weeks of administration, rats were euthanized, blood sample was collected and centrifuged for analysis. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Total bilirubin (TB), Conjugated bilirubin (CB), total protein (TP), albumin, (ALB) creatinine, urea, uric acid, and electrolytes were measured. The results showed a significant (p < 0.05) elevation of liver enzymes and kidney markers in HFD-fed rats. At the same time, the Solanum lycopersicum-treated groups exhibited a marked improvement in both liver and kidney parameters compared to the HFD control. The study concludes that Solanum lycopersicum possesses hepatoprotective and renoprotective potential, suggesting its nutritional importance in preventing diet-induced metabolic disorders.