By Pius Awunah
As part of activities to mark Nigeria 65th independence anniversary, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched the free distribution of Mother–Baby Kits and the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project.
During the official launch at the Asokoro district hospital in Abuja, FCT Minister of State, Dr.Mariya Mahmoud noted that the two health flagship programmes represent a holistic vision of health: protecting mothers and newborns during childbirth while safeguarding families from the dangers of household air pollution.
Mahmoud, also noted that the initiatives symbolize the administration’s resolve to invest in both immediate healthcare needs and long-term environmental sustainability.
The Minister explained that the Mother–Baby kits, contained essential medical items and consumables, that would support safe labour, delivery, and neonatal care for women and babies across the FCT.
According to her, “No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care.
“These kits reflect our deep commitment to maternal and child health and to ensuring that every mother and baby are given the best start possible.”
She, however, described the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project, as a bold, forward-looking initiative designed to reduce indoor air pollution in vulnerable households.
Mahmoud emphasised that by replacing polluting fuels such as firewood, charcoal, and kerosene with smart, efficient Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cookers, the administration is addressing one of the silent but deadly health risks in the homes: respiratory disease caused by smoke inhalation.
The Minister affirmed that the two transformative programmes were part of a broader transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Mahmoud further said the administration has strengthened its workforce through improved conditions, and training investments, while infrastructure upgrades—from hospital renovations including call rooms to the establishment of a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre—have boosted efficiency and resilience.
She used the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary to call on Nigerians to recommit themselves to building an FCT where every home is healthier, every birth is safer, and every breath is cleaner.
Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Mandate Secretary FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, revealed that every year, Nigeria continues to face unacceptably high rates of maternal and infant mortality.
She lamented that despite progress made, too many women still lose their lives during childbirth, and too many newborns do not live to see their first birthday.
She reiterated the FCT Administration’s, commitment under the leadership of Mr.Nyesom Wike, to investing in strategic health interventions that have a direct impact on the lives of the rural people.
