Independence Day: FCTA launches maternal health kits, ‘breathe fresh air project’

The federal capital territory administration (FCTA) has launched the free distribution of mother–baby kits and the Abuja breathe fresh air project as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary.

Mariya Mahmoud, FCT minister of state, unveiled the programmes on Wednesday at the Asokoro General Hospital in Abuja.

The minister said the two programmes embody a comprehensive approach to healthcare, focusing on the protection of mothers and newborns during childbirth while also addressing the risks posed by household air pollution to families.

She said the initiatives reflect the administration’s commitment to addressing both urgent healthcare needs and promoting long-term environmental sustainability.

She added that the mother-baby kits include crucial medical supplies and consumables designed to facilitate safe labour, delivery, and neonatal care for women and infants across the territory.

“No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care,” Mahmoud said.

“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.”

The minister described the Abuja breathe fresh air project as a bold, forward-looking initiative designed to reduce indoor air pollution in vulnerable households.

She said by replacing polluting fuels such as firewood, charcoal, and kerosene with smart, efficient liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cookers, the FCT administration is addressing one of the silent but deadly health risks in the homes: respiratory disease caused by smoke inhalation.

She noted that the two programmes are part of broader transformative initiatives under the renewed hope agenda.

Adedolapo Fasawe, the mandate secretary for FCT health services and environment secretariat, said every year, Nigeria continues to face unacceptably high rates of maternal and infant mortality.

She said despite progress made, too many women still lose their lives during childbirth, and too many newborns do not live to see their first birthday.

“One major reason for these preventable deaths is the lack of access to clean, safe, and essential supplies during delivery,” Fasawe said.

“The renewed hope mother-baby kit initiative is designed to bridge that gap. Each kit contains basic but critical items needed to ensure a hygienic and safe delivery both for the mother and the child.”