Abuja: The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has introduced two groundbreaking initiatives, the 'Renewed Hope Mother-Baby Kits Initiative' and the 'Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project', with a focus on enhancing maternal health and improving household air quality. These projects were inaugurated by the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, at Asokoro District Hospital, aligning with the celebrations of Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr Mahmoud elaborated that these initiatives, branded as 'Wike Renewing Hope: One Baby at a Time, One Home at a Time', are being executed in partnership with IHS Nigeria. The aim is to adopt a comprehensive strategy towards healthcare and environmental sustainability, ensuring the safety of mothers and newborns during childbirth, while mitigating the risks associated with household air pollution.
The Mother-Baby Kits, provided without charge, are equipped with vital medical supplies necessary for safe labour, delivery, and neonatal care throughout the FCT. On the environmental front, the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project seeks to address indoor air pollution by substituting traditional polluting fuels such as firewood, charcoal, and kerosene with smart, efficient Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cookers, thereby reducing health risks like respiratory diseases caused by smoke inhalation.
Dr Mahmoud also highlighted the FCTA's commitment to strengthening the health workforce by enhancing working conditions and providing consistent training. Additionally, substantial investments have been made in infrastructure, including hospital renovations and the establishment of a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.
In line with Nigeria's Independence Anniversary, Mahmoud urged citizens to pledge towards fostering an FCT where homes are healthier, births are safer, and air quality is cleaner. Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, expressed concern over the country's high maternal and infant mortality rates, attributed largely to the lack of access to clean, safe, and essential delivery supplies.