By Abbas Nazil
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched two major initiatives aimed at promoting safe motherhood, reducing maternal and infant mortality, and curbing air pollution as part of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The programmes, titled the “Renewed Hope Free Distribution of Mother-Baby Kits Initiative” with the slogan “Renewed Hope, One Baby at a Time;” and the “Breathe Clean Air Initiative” with the slogan “Renewed Hope, One Home at a Time,” were inaugurated in Abuja by the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud.
She said the initiatives reflect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to inclusivity and the welfare of women, particularly expectant mothers.
Under the Mother-Baby Kits Initiative, pregnant women across the six area councils of Abuja will receive essential kits containing over ten items, including baby suits, shawls, sanitary pads, solar lanterns, towels, diapers, plates, and sponges.
The kits are designed to support women before, during, and after childbirth.
For air quality improvement, the Breathe Clean Air Initiative, implemented with the support of IHS Towers under the supervision of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, will provide gas cookers to households to discourage reliance on firewood and charcoal.
According to Mahmoud, this will protect women and children from respiratory illnesses, reduce pollution, and promote clean energy.
She also encouraged antenatal care, hospital deliveries, immunization, exclusive breastfeeding, and family planning while noting that beneficiaries were selected based on consistent antenatal attendance.
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, described the launch as a landmark move to improve maternal and child health, reduce preventable deaths, and align with the Federal Government’s Universal Health Coverage reforms and the Sustainable Development Goals.
She commended the support of NGOs, health workers, and community leaders, stressing that the kits are practical tools that will save lives when combined with compassion and professional healthcare services.
