Federal Government has flagged off a national incentives programme aimed at boosting the utilization of maternal and newborn care services across Nigeria.
The event was held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and was led by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
Representing the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council at the ceremony was the Oore of Otun Ekiti and Chairman, Moba Traditional Council of Traditional Rulers, Ekiti State, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo.
Oba Adeagbo attended in his capacity as Coordinator, South West, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Committee on Primary Health Care, Abuja.
The first class Oba represented His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi who is the Permanent Chairman of the Council.
On his own, Minister of Health, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate was also in attendance alongside other distinguished guests and stakeholders in the health sector.
The gathering brought together traditional rulers, government officials, and development partners to demonstrate collective commitment to reducing maternal and newborn mortality in the country.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady emphasized that the incentives programme was designed to encourage more women to access antenatal, delivery, and postnatal services in health facilities. She noted that community and traditional institutions have a critical role to play in mobilizing citizens and changing perceptions about skilled birth attendance.
In his remarks, Prof. Pate said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration to strengthen primary health care and ensure no woman dies while giving life. He added that incentives, combined with improved service delivery, would help bridge gaps in access, especially in rural and underserved communities.
The Oore of Otun Ekiti, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, pledged the support of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in sensitizing communities on the importance of maternal and newborn care.
He concluded that, “Health is Wealth… A Healthy Nation is a Wealthy Nation,” and urged Nigerians to take advantage of the programme for safer motherhood.
