By Nafisat Makinde
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, distributed 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the South-East region, marking a significant milestone in the Renewed Hope Agenda’s efforts to improve maternal healthcare. The ceremony, held in Enugu State, was attended by dignitaries including the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, and other key stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
The kits, which include branded scrubs and pairs of crocs, are designed to enhance the working conditions and morale of midwives, who play a critical role in Nigeria’s healthcare system. According to Senator Tinubu, the initiative is not just a symbolic gesture, but a practical show of support for the hardworking midwives who are essential to the country’s healthcare system.
“This is not just a symbolic gesture but a practical show of support for the hardworking midwives who are essential to our healthcare system,” the First Lady said. “We believe in the vital work that midwives do, and we’re committed to supporting them in every way possible.”
Dr. Salako, in his remarks, described the initiative as a critical intervention, noting that it benefits over 40% of Nigeria’s registered midwives. “This initiative is a game-changer for maternal healthcare in Nigeria,” he said. “We’re proud to be part of a government that values the work of midwives and is committed to supporting them.”
The initiative is part of a broader effort to support 120,000 frontline health workers across the country, with over 60,000 already completing retraining. The kits distribution is expected to have a significant impact on maternal healthcare outcomes in Nigeria, aligning with the national targets of reducing maternal mortality by 20% and under-five mortality by 15% by 2027.
In addition to the kits distribution, the First Lady announced a N50 million grant to empower 1,000 petty traders in Enugu State, with each receiving N50,000 to recapitalize their existing businesses. This initiative aims to boost economic activity and support local entrepreneurs.
The ceremony concluded with the official handover of the kits to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards universal health coverage and improved maternal healthcare outcomes.
