Lagos Firstlady calls for action on malnutrition

…advocates for healthier families

….flags off second round of mncah+n week in Somolu

By Adeola Ogunrinde

The FirstLady of Lagos State, Dr (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has called for action on malnutrition, advocating for healthier families.

Mrs Sanwo-Olu made the call at the flagged off of the second round of the 2024 Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health Plus Nutrition (MNCAH+N) Week, at the New Secretariat Complex, Somolu local government.

She called for collective action in safeguarding the health of women, children, and adolescents particularly during the week-long celebration holding between 16th and 20th of December, 2024.

In her keynote address, she highlighted the state’s commitment to providing high-impact, cost-effective health services.

She noted that MNCAH+N Week, initiated in Lagos in 2010, has become a nationwide movement ensuring free access to critical interventions such as immunization, antenatal care, and nutrition services.

“Today, we reaffirm our dedication to the well-being of our citizens. The free services provided this week are life-saving and transformative,” she said.

Sanwo-Olu also addressed the troubling rise in sexual violence and substance abuse among adolescents, urging community leaders and law enforcement agencies to collaborate in tackling these issues.

Reflecting on the successes of the first round, the First Lady revealed ” over 80% of children under five reached, 17,500 women receiving maternal care, and 196,004 individuals benefiting from family planning services. We are confident this round will surpass these milestones”.

The Special Adviser to the Lags State Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi underscored the significance of MNCAH+N Week in reducing preventable maternal and child deaths.

She emphasized the need for a cultural shift towards preventive healthcare and healthy lifestyles.

Related Articles

Back to top button