Kogi Central: Senator Natasha flags off free maternity centre, empowers constituents(PHOTOS)

Senator Natasha H Akpoti-Uduaghan on Thursday, launched the construction of a free maternity centre and child care centre in Kogi Central senatorial district.

The centre, scheduled for completion in four months, will provide free and efficient maternity services to women in the district.

The senator expressed her excitement about the project, stating that she understands the challenges of childbirth, having given birth to four children herself.

She emphasised that every pregnancy is unique and comes with its own risks, and acknowledged that women in rural areas face even greater difficulties due to limited access to healthcare.

“As a mother of four, I understand the physical toll of pregnancy and the unique risks involved. With my access to healthcare, I can only imagine the challenges women in rural areas face during childbirth. As your Senator, I believe it’s important to build a maternity and childcare center to support these women.”

The maternity centre will be a 20-bed facility with two delivery rooms, an ICU, and staff quarters.

The senator noted that the staff quarters are essential, as many doctors are reluctant to work in rural areas due to inadequate accommodation.

She promised the centre’s services will be completely free, adding that she looks forward to seeing women gather at the centre to receive antenatal care and support.

She also highlighted the centre’s sacred location, situated near the grave of the Ebira nation’s mother and the Eid ground where Muslim faithfuls observe Salah prayers.

In addition to the maternity centre, the Kogi lawmaker also empowered her constituents by providing tools and training to those who had earlier been trained in welding and carpentry. This initiative aims to enable them to start their own workshops and become financially independent.

The senator concluded by thanking her constituents and expressing her joy in spending time with them.

She also announced that 200 bags of rice would be distributed to those present, in addition to the 2400 bags of grains distributed a few weeks prior.