•Flags-off free medical outreach in Kogi Central
By Victoria Okpanachi
Kogi First lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed her commitment to uplifting women, the elderly, youths and vulnerable communities across the state by enhancing access to healthcare and education.
Hajia Sefinat Ododo gave the assurance in her New Year felicitations to people of the State.
In her message to the people of the state, the Wife of the Governor reaffirmed her dedication to promote programmes tailored at improving healthy living as well as the status of the elderly, youth and vulnerable groups in society.
Meanwhile, in continuation of her efforts to contribute to the health and well being of residents of Kogi State, the First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has extended her free medical outreach to the Central Senatorial District.
Recall that the first lady, Hajiya Ododo commenced the initiative at the Specialist Hospital, Lokoja a few days ago.
Speaking at Hajiya Nana Hawawu Oziohu Memorial Hospital, in Upogoro community, Okene Local Government, Mrs Ododo called on women to actively monitor and engage with their children to address potential challenges.
Mrs. Ododo emphasised the importance of empowering women as the cornerstone of societal progress, pledging to advance initiatives that provide economic and social opportunities for women in the State.
She expressed gratitude to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her impact on the lives of the people under the “Renewed Hope Initiative,” which according to Hajiya Ododo, has uplifted Nigerian women, including those in the state by providing tools for economic growth and capacity building.
The First Lady distributed antenatal kits, medical supplies, pharmaceutical drugs, food items, and cash to over 120 patients, underscoring her commitment to easing the financial burdens on families, particularly during the festive season.
She appealed for continued support for her husband, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, to enable the administration to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of the state.
Mrs. Ododo visited key medical facilities, including Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital, Iruvochinomi where she advised women to prioritise their health, attend antenatal care promptly as well as remain security-conscious.
In his remark, President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal University Teaching Hospital Lokoja,Dr. Jibrin Umar, urged healthcare workers to maintain professionalism and diligence in saving lives.
He advised pregnant women to seek antenatal services early to prevent complications and ensure safe deliveries.
He lauded Mrs. Ododo’s efforts at improving healthcare delivery, calling for sustained government support in addressing manpower gaps in the health sector.
Hajia. Ododo, through her Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs, Mrs. Aliu Ohunene, also visited Ateba in Agassa community to distribute monetary gifts and relief items to senior citizens.
Patients and families across the hospitals and other locations visited across Kogi Central expressed appreciation for the First Lady’s generosity and compassion. Many described her outreach as a timely intervention that has brought relief to struggling households.
Highlights of the First Lady’s engagement during the New Year festivities include healthcare interventions, support for families, and advocacy against drug abuse.