The urgent need to tackle maternal and child mortality in Kano State took center stage at a two-day Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on “Developing an Action Plan for the Implementation of Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law in Kano State.”
The event, held at the Grand Central Hotel, Kano, was organized by the Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) and saw the participation of key stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
In his welcome address, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, Executive Director of CHRICED, underscored the severity of maternal and child mortality rates in Kano and the necessity of immediate action.
He highlighted the Free Maternal and Child Healthcare (FMNCH) Law (2023) as a critical step in ensuring healthcare access for mothers and children but emphasized that implementation remains the key challenge.
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The meeting brought together a distinguished array of participants, including His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano; the Rt. Honourable Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly; the Honourable Commissioner of Health; representatives of government ministries, departments, and agencies; civil society organizations; and the media.
Zikirullahi stressed that maternal and child healthcare should not be seen as an isolated issue but as a fundamental right that requires urgent intervention.
He called for collective responsibility, urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively in developing a sustainable framework for the successful implementation of the FMNCH Law.
The stakeholders’ consultative meeting was convened to create a roadmap for the full execution of the FMNCH Law, addressing both systemic bottlenecks and resource allocation challenges.
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CHRICED reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Kano State government and all relevant stakeholders to ensure the FMNCH Law translates into tangible healthcare improvements.
Zikirullahi highlighted that beyond policy formulation, concerted action is needed to address logistical and financial barriers that often hinder effective healthcare delivery.
“The success of this law depends on how well we collaborate. This is not just about enacting a law—it is about saving lives. Every mother and child in Kano deserves access to quality healthcare, and we must do everything in our power to make this a reality,” he asserted.
As the consultative meeting continues, stakeholders are expected to outline a detailed action plan with clear timelines, responsibilities, and funding strategies.
The anticipated outcome is a comprehensive strategy that ensures that no mother or child in Kano is left without access to the healthcare services they need and deserve.