Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) has called for the implementation of Free Maternal and Child Healthcare (FMNCH) Law in Kano State to ensure that every mother and child has access to healthcare services when needed.

During a two-day Stakeholders Consultative Meeting tagged: “Developing Action Plan for the Implementation of Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law in Kano State, Nigeria” at Grand Central Hotel, Kano, Executive Director of CHRICED, Ibrahim Zikirullahi, stated that implementation of the policy represents a pivotal step towards ensuring that every mother and child in Kano State have access to healthcare services they need and deserve.

He noted that it was needed to build a healthier future for mothers and children in the state.

Zikirullahi stressed the need for the state government to create a clear framework and actionable work plan that addresses the multi-faceted challenges of maternal and child mortality.

He called for collective efforts to ensure that the FMNCH Law is not just a document, but a living framework that transforms lives, and strengthens the healthcare system in Kano State.

“The need for action is urgent. The health and well-being of our mothers and children depend on our collective efforts.   “At CHRICED, we are deeply committed to fostering collaboration with the state government and other important stakeholders in the maternal and child healthcare sector in Kano State.

“Our primary goal is to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of the Kano State FMNCH Law. Recognising the importance of a united front in tackling the challenges faced in this sector, we have taken the initiative to organise this stakeholders’ consultative meeting.

“This gathering is designed to promote meaningful dialogue and cooperation among key actors, including government agencies, healthcare providers, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders,” he said.

CHRICED’s Senior Programmes Officer, Omoniyi Adeoye, stated that investing in women’s and children’s health is essential to upholding the right to health.

Representing the Ministry of Planning and Budget, Ajumawa L.A, described the stakeholders’ meeting as timely and stressed the need for its sustainability.

Representative of the Emir of Kano and Chairman of Kano Emirate Council Committee on Health/DanKadan Kano, Dr. Bashir Muhammad, underscored the need to know who to be held accountable for FMNCH’s non-implementation at all levels.

He, therefore, sought a road map for the implementation of the law through the application of a well-structured work plan.