FCTA unveils flagship health initiatives to mark Nigeria’s independence

As part of activities to mark Nigeria 65th independence anniversary, the Federal Capital Territory Administration has launched free distribution of Mother–Baby Kits and the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project.
Speaking during the official launch at the Asokoro district hospital in Abuja, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud noted that the two health flagship programmes represent a holistic vision of health: protecting mothers and newborns during childbirth while safeguarding families from the dangers of household air pollution.
Mahmoud, also noted that the initiatives symbolize the administration’s resolve to invest in both immediate healthcare needs and long-term environmental sustainability.
She explained that the Mother–Baby kits, contained essential medical items and consumables, that would support safe labour, delivery, and neonatal care for women and babies across the FCT.
“No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care.
“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”, she stated.
She, however, described the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project, as a bold, forward-looking initiative designed to reduce indoor air pollution in vulnerable households.
Mahmoud emphasized that by replacing polluting fuels such as firewood, charcoal, and kerosene with smart, efficient Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cookers, the administration is addressing one of the silent but deadly health risks in the homes: respiratory disease caused by smoke inhalation.
She affirmed that these two transformative programmes are part of a broader transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to her, the administration has strengthened its workforce through improved conditions, and training investments, while infrastructure upgrades—from hospital renovations including call rooms to the establishment of a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre—have boosted efficiency and resilience.
She, therefore, used the occasion of Nigeria 65th independence anniversary to call on Nigerians to recommit themselves to building an FCT, where every home is healthier, every birth is safer, and every breath is cleaner.
Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Mandate Secretary FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, decried that every year, Nigeria continues to face unacceptably high rates of maternal and infant mortality.

She added that 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.

“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”, she noted.

She therefore reiterated the FCT Administration’s, commitment under the leadership of Barr. Nyesom Wike, to investing in strategic health interventions that have a direct impact on the lives of the rural people.

On his part, Dr. Peter Olumiji, Secretary, Command and Control of the FCTA’s Security Services Department, said the FCT Administration in conjunction with the security agencies were using every tool available to carry surveillance and intelligence gathering and would as well use forest guards and drones for securing plantations and forests in territory to enhance security of lives and property.