Ekiti First Lady Launches Maternal Health Initiative 2026

Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the wife of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, inaugurated the 2026 first round of the Maternal and Newborn Child Health Week (MNCHW) at the Adunni Olayinka Centre in Ado Ekiti.

This initiative aims to address the significant maternal and child mortality rates in Nigeria, which stands at 100 deaths per 1,000 live births nationally, with the South West region recording 62 deaths and Ekiti State at 44 deaths per 1,000 live births. Dr.

Oyebanji emphasized the importance of the program as a strategic intervention to enhance health outcomes for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under five. The MNCHW will run from June 22 to June 26, 2026, across the state's 16 local government areas.

She urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to utilize the free healthcare services available during this period. The event was attended by various health officials, including Professor Habibat Adubiaro and representatives from UNICEF, who commended the state's commitment to improving maternal and child health.