In a decisive step towards improving maternal and child health in Kogi State, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and development partners, have concluded a five-day Implementation Design Workshop on the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII).
The workshop, which ended on Friday at the Primary Health Care Centre, Old Market, Lokoja, culminated in the official presentation of the MAMII Implementation Plan to the Kogi State Government, a move seen as a major milestone in the state’s effort to end preventable maternal and neonatal deaths by 2027.
Speaking at the handover, Mrs. Sariet Audu, the Federal SWAP Officer for MAMII, described the document as more than a policy paper, saying that it represents a collective promise to ensure that every mother and child in Kogi State has a chance to live and thrive.
“This is not just a document; it is a call to action, MAMII is a shared vision, a collaborative mission that requires the effort of everyone, policy makers, health workers, and communities alike, to make Kogi a safer place for mothers and babies.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Adekoya Adeola, Principal Nutrition Officer at the Child Health Desk, who represented the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said the Federal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to drastic reduction in maternal and newborn deaths nationwide.
According to her, the MAMII initiative mirrors the government’s vision for a health system where “no woman dies giving life and no newborn is lost to preventable causes.”
She emphasized that the programme is designed to strengthen healthcare systems, improve referral processes, and promote community participation in achieving better health outcomes.
“The Federal Ministry of Health will continue to provide both technical and financial support to ensure sustainability, she added, noting that collaboration between the federal and state governments is key to achieving long-term results.
In his closing remarks, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adams Abdulaziz, lauded the workshop for its impact in deepening knowledge, building capacity, and fostering partnerships among health stakeholders.
The commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, ministry, Stephen Momoh, said
“For five days, we have exchanged ideas, reviewed strategies, and built synergies that will translate into improved health services for women and children, he said.
“The success of this workshop will be reflected in healthier mothers, stronger babies, and safer deliveries across Kogi State.
Momoh further commended the facilitators, resource persons, and partners such as the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and MSI Nigeria Reproductive Choices for their continued support
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to implementing evidence-based interventions and continuous capacity building for healthcare workers.
He encouraged participants to take the lessons learnt back to their respective local government areas and health facilities, adding that they should now serve as ambassadors of safe motherhood and champions of quality healthcare.