By Abel Daniel, Lafia

In a determined effort to reduce the alarming rates of maternal and child mortality in Nigeria, a non-governmental organization, HACEY, with support from Access Corporation, has provided delivery kits and sensitized over 2,000 women in Nasarawa State.

The initiative, which concluded with a gathering of over 100 pregnant women in Keffi Local Government Area, marked the culmination of a three-month sensitization and empowerment exercise.

Mrs. Ololade Ogunnubi, Program Manager for HACEY’s Northern Region, revealed that the organization had visited 16 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the state, training health workers and pregnant women on strategies to reduce maternal mortality.

“We have trained and sensitized more than 2,000 pregnant women and provided delivery kits to encourage those who may lack access to nearby health facilities during delivery,” she said. Ogunnubi expressed optimism that the training and resources provided would significantly minimize maternal mortality in the region.

Anne Bassey, HACEY’s Communication Officer, reiterated the project’s goals during an interview in Keffi on Sunday. She explained that the initiative, supported by Access Corporation, aimed to address gaps in maternal healthcare and improve outcomes for mothers and babies.

“Project Agbebi, a safe motherhood initiative by HACEY and Access Corporation, seeks to reduce maternal deaths by increasing access to essential birthing supplies, educating women, and empowering them to make informed health and economic choices,” Bassey stated.

Some beneficiaries commended HACEY for its impactful intervention. Aisha Ibrahim and Mercy Adamu, participants in the program, highlighted how the training helped them understand the dangers of traditional birthing practices and adopt safer delivery methods.

“I am grateful for the information I received today. Many pregnant women are unaware of critical aspects of safe delivery, which can lead to complications or even death. This training has enlightened us, and I will share what I’ve learned with others,” said Mercy Adamu.

The beneficiaries praised the initiative as a life-changing experience, expressing hope that more women would have access to similar opportunities in the future.