Wife of the Lagos State governor, Bolanle Ambode, yesterday called on pregnant women to complement the efforts of the state government towards achieving zero infant/maternal mortality by embracing healthy and hygienic lifestyle.
This was as she distributed mother care kits to over 230 pregnant women to relieve them of the burden of procuring the items, at a programme tagged “Hope for Expectant Mothers” organised by Hope for Women In Nigeria Initiative (HOFOWEM), a pet project initiated by the governor’s wife.
According to Ambode, often times infants are at risk of infections, diarrhoea, poor growth and other diseases associated with un-hygienic habits, and as such expectant mothers must make hygienic living a habit such as regular washing of hands.
“The act of washing hands is so simple yet we do not see it as a game changing solution. They are so elementary that we frequently forget they can save lives. Basic personal hygiene and good sanitary conduct begins with hand washing.
“So, it is an important message to take home for the young ones. Let them know the many benefits of that simple act. Tell them it prevents infections, keeps them neat, and keeps them healthy and happy all the time.
“Even as mothers, always wash your own hands not only when you have visited the toilet but before cooking, serving food or attending to your infants. This way, many unnecessary illnesses for the child or mother would be prevented. As women, we have a key role to play in the health-for-all aspiration of the Lagos State Government. We must play our role effectively to help government achieve zero infant and maternal mortality rate,” she said.
She added that in the few years, the state had witnessed significant reduction in maternal and child mortality rate, attributing same to adequate ante and post natal care and the state government’s continuous improvement on health facilities, constant re-training of medical personnel and provision of modern equipment including the regular supply of mosquito nets.
HOFOWEM is a foundation established with the intention of uplifting the welfare of widows, children and aged women.
At the event held at Alausa, Ikeja, a total of 230 pregnant women were given delivery packs which included baby and mother beds, sanitary pad, towel, beverages, thermometer, shawl, diapers, breastfeeding net, traveling bed, sanitisers, among others.
Oyefunke Adeleke, coordinator of HOFOWEM, lauded Bolanle Ambode for her support for women and children in the state, noting that the programme was one of the many initiatives aimed at significantly helping women and children.
