The Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHDA), in collaboration with the Kogi State Ministry of Health, has launched the first phase of its Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Week (MNCHW), HPV Vaccination, and Safe Motherhood Campaign.
MNCHW has been put in place to enhance maternal and child health outcomes in the state by rendering comprehensive health services, notably maternal and newborn services, vaccinations, and health education. The programme also aims at improving the well-being of mothers and children between 0–5 years old.
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The event was flagged off at Government House, Lokoja, by the wife of the governor, Mrs Sefinat Usman Ododo, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade.
As part of the major activity of the day, vitamin A supplements for children aged 6–59 months were administered, deworming tablets and other essential materials were given to mothers as Safe Motherhood packages.
Speaking to the newsmen, Dr. Folashade Ayoade praised government’s commitment to improving healthcare services. She declared, “In Kogi State when you are pregnant you don’t pay for your medical care for antenatal; even during delivery there is health insurance for it, the first five years of the children’s birth you don’t pay, so why will you not go to the hospital when you won’t have to pay for it?”.
On his part, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, emphasised the importance of accessible healthcare services for all, particularly for mothers and children. He stated that the government is committed to reducing maternal mortality.
In his welcome address, Dr. Mu’azu Omeiza Musa, the Executive Director of KSPHDA appreciated the Governor’s support and the First Lady’s concern for vulnerable persons. He also extends gratitude to development partners, civil society organisations, and stakeholders for their continuous support, as the agency remains committed to improving healthcare delivery in Kogi State.