The First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, has called on residents, especially women and caregivers, to make full use of the free healthcare services provided by the government.
She noted the many challenges that mothers face in accessing quality medical care and stressed the importance of using available health services to protect mothers and children.
The appeal was made on Tuesday, during the official launch of the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Week (MNCHW), HPV Vaccination Campaign, and Safe Motherhood Day.
The event was organised by the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency in partnership with the Kogi State Ministry of Health.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Folashade Ayoade, the first lady said the programme is a major step towards improving health outcomes for mothers and children.
She highlighted the government’s commitment to building a system where every mother and child has access to the care they need.
The week-long campaign includes services such as vitamin A supplements for children aged 6–59 months, deworming for mothers, immunisations, antenatal care, family planning, and the distribution of Mama Kits. Girls aged 9–14 will also receive the HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer.
Health Commissioner, Dr Abdulazeez Adeiza, urged residents to visit their nearest health centres or outreach points to benefit from the services. He also thanked Governor Ododo for his support and praised health workers for their dedication.
Kogi health care agency speaks
The Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Mu’azu Musa, said the programme would cover all 21 local government areas and 239 wards across the state.
He encouraged women, parents, and guardians to ensure their families make use of the free health services.
Representatives from WHO, UNICEF, traditional rulers, and religious leaders also joined in praising the government’s efforts, stressing the need for continued cooperation to improve healthcare access in Kogi State.
