Sokoto State to Provide Free Delivery Kits for Mothers

The Sokoto State Government has announced an initiative to provide free delivery kits to women giving birth in public health facilities, aimed at reducing maternal and newborn mortality rates. This announcement was made by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar, during the dissemination of the Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) assessment report in Sokoto.

Alongside the delivery kits, plans include installing solar lighting in labor rooms and enhancing antenatal care services. Dr. Abubakar noted improvements in health indicators, such as immunization coverage and a decline in maternal and child mortality, but emphasized the need for further interventions.

He identified three critical delays contributing to maternal mortality: delays in seeking medical attention, reaching health facilities, and receiving adequate care. The Sokoto State Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Chairman, Hon. Abba Shehu, called for extending maternal health interventions to all 23 local government areas, particularly rural communities.

Hon. Kabiru Dauda, Chairman of the Sokoto State House of Assembly Committee on Health, pledged legislative support for these initiatives.