The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge and attitudes of practicing Nigerian lawyers towards
issues relating to reproductive health and reproductive rights, and their opinions about abortion law reform. It was a
population- based study which consisted of interviews with practicing lawyers in north-east Nigeria. The results
showed poor knowledge of issues related to reproductive health and reproductive rights among the lawyers.
However, the majority (56.9%) disagreed that a woman can practice family planning without the consent of her
husband. The prevalence of contraceptive use among the lawyers was low and attitude to abortion law not
satisfactory. Only few lawyers (22.4%) supported safe abortion in cases of failed contraception. We conclude that
reproductive health advocates must target legal professionals with a view to educating them on issues relating to
sexual and reproductive health and rights. Lawyers in Nigeria should undergo capacity building in reproductive
health laws and be encouraged to specialize in reproductive rights protection as obtainable in other developed
countries (Afr J Reprod Health 2012; 16[1]:69-74).