The Kogi State Government has officially inaugurated the first round of the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) Week, a bi-annual initiative aimed at providing essential healthcare services to vulnerable populations throughout the state.
During the launch event held at the Government House in Lokoja, the First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, urged mothers and their children to take full advantage of the program to access vital healthcare services. Represented by the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Dr. Folashade Ayoade, Mrs. Ododo emphasized the importance of regular antenatal care for pregnant women and nursing mothers. “I encourage our women to prioritize their health and that of their children by utilizing the essential services available at our healthcare facilities,” she stated.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, highlighted that the MNCH Week initiative is designed to enhance health outcomes and promote the well-being of women and children across Kogi State. He noted that the program aims to raise awareness, encourage positive health-seeking behaviors, and stimulate demand for routine healthcare services. “We are urging mothers and their children to actively engage with our healthcare facilities to ensure they receive the basic and essential services they need,” Dr. Abdulazeez remarked.
Dr. Musa Muazu Omeiza, the Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, elaborated on the program’s focus on delivering essential healthcare services to pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under five. He announced that the first round of MNCH Week will take place from July 7th to 11th, 2025, at primary healthcare facilities and through outreach programs in hard-to-reach areas. “We are committed to ensuring that these vital services are accessible to all,” he affirmed.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in improving maternal health care services
The event was attended by stakeholders, including the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Health Organization (WHO), religious and traditional leaders, women’s groups, and others. The stakeholders commended the Kogi State government for the success achieved in MNCH in previous years and assured the state of their continued support.
maternal, newborn, and child mortality, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He encouraged women, parents, and caregivers to utilize healthcare services in all 21 LGAs and 239 wards across the state.
Dorothy Onoja
PRO
Ministry of Health
