During the launch of the second round of Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) Week in Ado Ekiti, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the First Lady of Ekiti State, encouraged nursing mothers to make breastfeeding a priority in the first six months of their infants’ lives. She stressed that breastfeeding is crucial for providing the necessary nutrients to support healthy development. Dr. Oyebanji also shed light on the importance of ensuring that children receive all recommended vaccinations, noting that immunisation is crucial to preventing diseases that continue to plague infant health in many parts of Nigeria.
Dr. Oyebanji’s appeal was part of a larger effort by the state government, in partnership with UNICEF and the World Health Organization, to address critical maternal and child health challenges. She emphasised the importance of ensuring that all children, regardless of their family’s financial situation or awareness, benefit from available health interventions. Dr. Oyebanji stressed that the government’s dedication to providing these services is a testament to its commitment to improving long-term health outcomes for both mothers and their children. Through such early health interventions, it is widely recognised that preventable diseases can be reduced, and overall health standards within communities can be significantly improved.
Combating childhood diseases through vaccination.
Exclusive breastfeeding provides numerous benefits beyond basic nourishment. It is instrumental in supporting a child’s healthy development, particularly in regions with limited healthcare access. Studies consistently show that breastfed infants are less likely to experience respiratory infections, diarrhoea, and other common health conditions. Additionally, breastfeeding helps mothers recover more quickly after childbirth and can reduce the risk of certain long-term health issues. Embracing breastfeeding can be an empowering and natural way for mothers to nurture their children, providing both immediate and long-term health advantages for both mother and child.
In addition to promoting exclusive breastfeeding, Oyebanji’s call for vaccination is essential, especially as Nigeria continues to grapple with diseases such as polio, measles, and tetanus, which still claim lives in various parts of the country. Despite the availability of vaccines, there remains a lack of widespread Education about their importance, which makes the First Lady’s emphasis on immunisation particularly valuable. She encouraged mothers to take advantage of the available health services, not only for vaccinations but also for routine check-ups and nutritional support, which are crucial for a child’s growth and development. Early interventions like these can significantly reduce Child Mortality rates and improve overall health outcomes within communities.
Maximising MNCH week to build healthier communities.
Furthermore, the government’s commitment to ensuring no child is left behind also includes making healthcare services more accessible. Dr. Oyebanji emphasised that all services provided during the MNCH Week, such as deworming, nutritional supplements, and vaccinations, are available at Public Health facilities and designated centres across the state free of charge. She urged families to take full advantage of these services, pointing out that they are designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial status. This initiative is particularly important for families who may not be able to afford these services, helping to prevent potential health risks and ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life.
To ensure the success of the MNCH Week initiative, Oyebanji emphasised the importance of Community Engagement and awareness. She encouraged mothers to share information about the available services with their families, neighbours, and other mothers, helping to create a more informed and supportive environment. While Oyebanji focused on the immediate goal of reaching as many mothers and children as possible, it is clear that raising awareness is a key part of the initiative’s success. Little wonder, then, that organisations, NGOs, and community groups are encouraged to follow in her footsteps, amplifying efforts to educate and engage communities on maternal and child health issues.
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Overall, the MNCH Week initiative represents a significant step toward addressing key health challenges in Ekiti State. By providing essential health services free of charge and promoting awareness of their benefits, the state government is taking a proactive approach to improving health outcomes for both mothers and children. Dr. Oyebanji’s message resonates beyond this week alone, aiming to foster lasting changes in health practices that will benefit the next generation. By focusing on the health of mothers and children, Ekiti State is laying the groundwork for a healthier future.