By Perpetua Onuegbu
Rotary International District 9127 has distributed delivery kits and mosquito nets to expectant mothers in Masaka, Nasarawa, to support safe childbirth and improve maternal and child health in the community.
The District Governor of Rotary District 9127, Dame Joy Okoro, led the distribution of 100 kits on Thursday at Masaka Central Hospital.
Speaking at the event, Okoro said the gesture was part of Rotary’s annual programme, which runs from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
She noted that July is dedicated to maternal and child health, making the outreach a priority for her administration.
“This is one of the first activities in my year of service as District Governor,” she said.
“We have chosen Masaka, a rural community, to make an impact where it is most needed. It has never been done before in this district”.
Okoro expressed concern over Nigeria’s high maternal and child mortality rates, urging pregnant women to seek professional care in hospitals rather than relying on traditional birth attendants.
“We want to educate women on the importance of delivering at the hospital under professional care.
“This intervention goes beyond donation, it’s about empowering women with information and access,” she said.
She also disclosed plans to organise a symposium to sensitise midwives and nurses on ethical conduct and respectful maternity care.
“Many women complain of being treated poorly or insulted by nurses during delivery, which discourages them from coming to the hospital.
“We want to work with hospital authorities to engage their staff on empathy and service ethics.”
Okoro called on government and stakeholders to support improved maternal health care through collaboration with humanitarian organisations and public-spirited individuals.
Also speaking, Dr Emmanuel Anthony, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Founder of Masaka Central Hospital, said the intervention was timely and impactful.
Anthony, who is also a Rotarian, said the hospital had been providing humanitarian services for over 15 years.
“This gesture is a big boost in reducing maternal mortality,” he said.
“Many women delay hospital visits until it’s too late, after complications from traditional birth practices. With these kits, more women will be encouraged to deliver in the hospital”.
Also, Mrs Omobola Odusoga, Rotary District Chairperson for Maternal and Child Health, said the initiative also includes free delivery services, including surgeries for women who cannot afford caesarean sections.
“We are giving out complete delivery kits, post-delivery packs, over 20 essential items including sanitary pads, gloves, cotton wool, disinfectants, and more,” she said.
Odusoga added that the initiative would be replicated across other parts of the district to help reduce maternal and infant mortality nationwide.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Rita Chimeka, expressed gratitude to Rotary for the support.
“It’s a massive help, especially for people who struggle financially,” she said.
“This programme gives us hope that both mother and child can come out safe and healthy”.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Rotary International District 9127 covers 16 states and the FCT.
It focuses on thematic areas such as maternal and child health, disease prevention, peacebuilding, and water, sanitation and hygiene. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
