28/07/2026
MINISTRY OF WOMEN AFFAIRS, NASOW FLAG OFF THREE-DAY MEDICAL OUTREACH FOR PREGNANT WOMEN AND NURSING MOTHERS
The Bayelsa State Ministry of Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, in collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Social Workers (NASOW), Bayelsa State Chapter, has commenced a three-day community medical outreach programme for pregnant women and nursing mothers.
The outreach, which began on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Nigerian Police Clinic in Yenagoa, is aimed at promoting maternal and child health, strengthening family welfare, and expanding access to social support services. Beneficiaries received essential items and participated in health education sessions on safe motherhood, responsible parenting, and available support services.
Addressing the participants, the Chairperson of NASOW, Bayelsa State Chapter, Mrs Lilian Nkiruka Obah, urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to rely on qualified medical professionals throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding, stressing that professional medical guidance is vital to the health of both mother and child.
Also speaking, the Director of Women Affairs, Mrs Yemi Atotu, encouraged mothers to be intentional in raising their children, describing the family as the foundation of every society and noting that the effects of poor parenting begin within the home before impacting the wider community.
Medical Social Worker Mrs Nerissa Ogori reaffirmed the role of social workers in advocating for vulnerable individuals and ensuring access to essential support services. She encouraged participants to seek professional assistance whenever they face challenges beyond their capacity and shared contact details for follow-up support.
Speaking on maternal health, Mrs Timinirerela Garden Koko educated the women on the importance of good personal hygiene during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a key factor in protecting the health of both mother and child.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, one of the pregnant women expressed appreciation to the Ministry and NASOW for the timely intervention, describing the outreach as impactful and encouraging.
The Matron of the Nigerian Police Clinic, Mrs Ayibaemi, commended the organisers for bringing the programme to the facility, while ACP (Dr.) Oni Akindele praised the initiative and encouraged beneficiaries to put the lessons learned into practice.
The outreach programme reflects NASOW's commitment to humanitarian service and complements the Ministry's efforts to improve maternal and child welfare across Bayelsa State. The programme will continue on Thursday, 30 July 2026, at the Women Affairs Clinic and Azikoro Health Centre.