Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, the First Lady of Kogi State, restated her commitment to advancing women’s empowerment, improving healthcare access, and tackling the escalating issue of drug abuse. She underscored the importance of empowering women as the bedrock of societal growth and pledged to continue working toward providing both economic and social opportunities for women throughout the state.
Mrs. Ododo also expressed her gratitude to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her transformative impact under the “Renewed Hope Initiative.” According to the Kogi First Lady, this initiative has provided invaluable tools for economic growth and capacity-building, benefiting women across the nation, including those in Kogi State. She emphasized that such empowerment is crucial for the holistic development of society.
As part of her ongoing efforts to ease the burdens on families, especially during the festive season, Mrs. Ododo led an extensive outreach program, distributing antenatal kits, medical supplies, pharmaceutical drugs, food items, and cash to over 120 patients. These gestures were aimed at alleviating the financial strain on households, particularly those facing health challenges. Her initiative demonstrates her dedication to improving healthcare and social welfare in Kogi State.
Mrs. Ododo also visited major medical facilities, including Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital, Iruvochinomi, where she encouraged women to prioritize their health by attending antenatal care sessions regularly. She emphasized the importance of being security-conscious and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Jibrin Umar, President of the Association of Resident Doctors at the Federal University Lokoja Teaching Hospital, praised the First Lady’s initiative, urging the government to address gaps in healthcare manpower to further enhance service delivery.
In addition to her focus on healthcare, Mrs. Ododo highlighted the critical role of family unity in shaping future generations. She advised women to support their husbands and nurture their children in a secure and disciplined environment. Her message to women emphasized the importance of love, prayers, and respect within families as key elements in raising responsible, well-adjusted children.
Addressing the growing issue of drug abuse among the youth, Mrs. Ododo appealed to mothers to actively monitor and engage with their children. Speaking at Hajia Nana Hawawu Oziohu Memorial Hospital in Upogoro, she stressed that drug abuse poses a significant threat to the future of the state and country. She urged mothers to play an active role in guiding their children, highlighting the need for proactive measures to combat this alarming trend.
