Primary healthcare, foundation for society’s wellbeing – Obiano

MATERNAL, newborn and child health is a veritable tool in driving any society’s well-being. A nation with sustained primary health care is poised for health and productivity.

  Governor Willie Obiano stated this at the Flag Off Ceremony of First Round of 2021 Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week, at Primary Health Centre, Isiagu, Awka South Local Government Area.

  Gov. Obiano, represented by Commissioner for Health, Dr. Vincent Okpala, extolled the Anambra State Primary Health Care  Development Agency (ASPHCDA), for promoting grassroots health, the foundation for society wellbeing. He noted that this year’s programme promises to be exceptional since the federal government directed the programme to be held twice a year.

  “This administration anchors its development on the well-being of ndi Anambra. We can’t downplay maternal and child nutrition and health. Comprehensive maternal and child health is a sound foundation for a prosperous nation.”

  Gov. Obiano warned that COVID-19 hasn’t been totally eradicated, advising ndi Anambra to adhere to COVID-19 protocols to safeguard themselves and protect others, ”The Delta variant of COVID-19 is a challenge today. Anambra State has not recorded any case but we mustn’t let down our guard. The state implemented the first phase of COVID vaccination in the state and awaits the second phase. We appreciate ASPHCDA for their effort in ensuring the success of COVID-19 vaccination.”

  Gov.  Obiano assured that his administration will sustain the programme.

  In his opening speech, the Transition Committee Chairman, Awka South Local Government Area, Leo Nwuba declared that the programme, aimed to deliver a package of basic interventions that are effective in improving mother and child health and integrated health package of highly cost-effective services interventions to strengthen the routine primary health care services.

  “In the health sector, we are closing all identified gaps with a view to achieving universal access to quality health care. Our Medical Outreach program, targets adults and the elderly in communities, highlights the need for early diagnosis through routine blood pressure, blood sugar, body index (BMI), and other vital body checks.”

  In her speech, wife of the State Governor, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Obiano, represented by the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency, (ASPHCDA), Dr. Chioma Ezenyimulu underscored that Anambra State has always participated fully in the national event from inception in 2010, noting that medical treatment and health kits were given free-of-charge and have been distributed to all primary health care centres across the state to ensure implementation of the week’s programme.