Okowa Urges Stronger Support For Free Healthcare For Women and Children
DELTA State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has called on the federal and state governments, as well as relevant stakeholders, to increase support for free healthcare services for pregnant women and children under five years old.
Governor Okowa made the appeal on Saturday when he received the National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Hajia Hajara Alkali-Baba, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Asaba.
The governor stressed that providing free medical care for vulnerable groups is key to reducing maternal and infant deaths in Nigeria.
“Nigeria still has an unacceptably high rate of maternal and child mortality, but it doesn’t have to be this way,” Okowa said.
He noted that Delta State introduced free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five in 2016, and the program has been sustainable.
“It’s not too much to ask. This is something every state and the federal government can do,” he added.
Governor Okowa emphasized that healthcare, education, and women’s empowerment are all connected and essential to building stable families and peaceful communities.
“When a woman is empowered, the whole family benefits. A healthy home leads to better education and stronger families,” he said.
He also urged governments to target empowerment programs to benefit the poor, ensuring that vulnerable families can survive the country’s current economic challenges.
Okowa praised POWA for its focus on the welfare, health, and education of police officers’ families.
“I commend you for your three-point agenda. It is not just about the police families—it supports the entire community and the nation at large,” he said.
Earlier, POWA National President, Hajia Hajara Alkali-Baba, said her visit was aimed at encouraging police families, many of whom have faced difficulties since the #EndSARS protests.
She highlighted her commitment to improving the well-being and education of police officers’ wives and children.
“I have visited six states, including Delta, since assuming office. We are working to give police families hope and better opportunities,” she said.
