In a renewed push to improve maternal and child health outcomes, the Cross River State Government has scaled up the distribution of essential antenatal and postnatal kits, as well as key drugs, to primary healthcare facilities across 10 additional local government areas.
The intervention, which forms part of the ongoing Maternal and Newborn Health Initiative, is being implemented under the administration of Governor Apostle Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.
The scheme, which initially covered five LGAs—Bakassi, Akpabuyo, Calabar Municipality, Calabar South, and Odukpani—during its flag-off on May 16, was extended to Akamkpa, Biase, Yakurr, and Abi in a second round on May 31.
The latest phase, conducted on Friday in Calabar, benefited Obubra, Etung, Ikom, Boki, Ogoja, and Bekwara LGAs. It was spearheaded by the Director-General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (CRSPHCDA), Dr. Vivien Mesembe Otu.
Dr. Otu disclosed that the ANC Mama Kits contain vital delivery items such as wrappers, mackintosh, baby clothing, antiseptics, surgical gloves, cotton wool, and diapers, all aimed at promoting safe and hygienic childbirth practices. Postnatal kits, distributed at immunization posts, include baby care items such as lotion, wipes, soap, powder, and diapers to support newborns in their early days.
She noted that the programme is being supported by the IMPACT Project under the World Bank, aligning with the state’s “People First” agenda. “Our goal is to ensure equitable access to maternal health resources across all 18 LGAs and 196 primary healthcare centres,” Dr. Otu said.
The exercise is being monitored by the State Commissioner for Health in collaboration with the CRSPHCDA to ensure prompt delivery and accountability.
The agency also paid tribute to the First Lady of the state, Her Excellency Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, describing her as a pivotal advocate for maternal and child health. “She is truly the mother of mothers and the mother of the motherless,” an official remarked, citing her unwavering compassion and advocacy for vulnerable groups.
With production underway for the remaining kits, the government has pledged that no pregnant or nursing mother in the state will be left behind.With production underway for the remaining kits, the government has pledged that no pregnant or nursing mother in the state will be left behind.
Source: Facebook| CRSPHCDA
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