By Femi Bolaji

Jalingo – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced plans to launch the Fathers for Good Health initiative in Taraba State.

Chief of the UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, revealed this in Mutum-Biyu during an assessment visit to Primary Health Care facilities in Gassol LGA. She addressed some of the challenges faced by the Mama-to-Mama advocacy group and emphasized the need for greater male involvement in maternal and child health.

According to Dr. Rafique, “Men will be able to engage with their fellow men, eliminating the challenges faced by our Mama-to-Mama advocacy group.”

She described the initiative as a game changer that would encourage more women to seek medical care and ensure higher child immunization rates.

Dr. Rafique also highlighted UNICEF’s ongoing efforts, in collaboration with GAVI, to strengthen healthcare facilities and governance in the state. She urged residents to take full advantage of these improved services.

Commending the Taraba State Government for its support, she noted that although the Memorandum of Understanding with GAVI had ended, UNICEF and other partners would continue to provide technical assistance.

The Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Nuhu Tukura, underscored the significant benefits of the partnership. He assured that the state government remains committed to sustaining these healthcare advancements.