Abayomi Bolatito
More than 4,000 pregnant women and nursing mothers in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have received free medical check-ups, healthcare services and care packages through the Ibom Open Maternity (IOM) project and the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).
The intervention was organised by the Carelife Character Foundation in collaboration with the Ibeno Local Government Council, with support from GIFA and other partners, as part of efforts to improve maternal and child healthcare in underserved communities.
Representing GIFA, Press Secretary to the First Lady, Uduak Ekong, encouraged mothers to practise exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of their babies’ lives and continue breastfeeding up to two years.
She explained that breastfeeding provides vital nutrients needed for children’s brain development and healthy growth, while advising pregnant women to attend antenatal clinics regularly to help healthcare workers monitor their wellbeing and identify possible complications early.
Ekong also urged expectant mothers to make use of available health services and follow professional medical advice on nutrition, rest, hygiene and routine health checks.
The Chairman of Ibeno Local Government Council, Glory Effiong, described the programme as a significant intervention for residents, while appealing for support to renovate ageing health facilities in riverine communities to improve healthcare access.
The Coordinator of the Ibom Open Maternity project, Dr Aniekeme George, said the initiative was established to bring essential medical services closer to women and children, especially those facing barriers to accessing healthcare.
He added that sustained support from partners would help expand the programme and reach more vulnerable communities.
Also, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Nutrition and Food Security, Hon. Moses Essien, praised the organisers and partners, noting that improving healthcare delivery requires cooperation between government and stakeholders.
The event concluded with a guided tour of the medical mission led by the Ibeno council chairman and frontline partners.
The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the Ibom Open Maternity project and its partners to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services across Akwa Ibom State.
Source: Channels Television
