The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, on Tuesday officially flagged off the Optimized Maternal, Newborn & Child Health Week (oMNCHW) at the Council Secretariat, Rumuodamaya.The health programme, which targets pregnant women, nursing mothers, newborns, children, caregivers and men, is aimed at improving access to essential health services, strengthening preventive care, and enhancing overall community well-being.
Speaking during the mini flag-off ceremony, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting quality healthcare at the grassroots. He stated that the distribution of health items and services under the oMNCHW would help build a healthier and more resilient population.
According to him: “Distributing these items will hopefully lead to a healthier, happier, and longer-living population, as well as a stronger government. I hope that as you go out to distribute these things to our people, the objective will be achieved — that our people will be healthier, happier, and live longer. Amen.
And that government will continue to grow from strength to strength. Amen.”
He thanked the health workers and partners involved in the programme and urged them to carry out their duties with dedication.
“I thank you and I wish you safety as you go out there to do your work. Do your best and always put people first. Thank you very much,” he added.
Responding, the Medical Officer of Health (MOH), Dr. Babep Chiney, commended the Chairman for his unwavering support toward health initiatives in the LGA. She noted that the oMNCHW remains a vital intervention designed to reduce maternal and child mortality while encouraging community participation in preventive healthcare.
Dr. Chiney assured the Chairman that the health officers were prepared and fully mobilized to ensure successful implementation across all wards. She also encouraged residents to take advantage of the free services being provided throughout the week.
The event featured the presentation of essential maternal and child health commodities, vitamins, deworming tablets, and other interventions that will be administered across primary health centres within the local government area.
Signed:
Obio/Akpor Press Unit
November 25, 2025
