Welcome Statement by Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, Executive Director of the Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED), At a two-day Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on “Developing Action Plan for the Implementation of Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law in Kano State, Nigeria,” held at the Grand Central Hotel, Kano, on February 5 – 6, 2025.

His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano,
The Rt. Honourable Speaker of Kano State House of Assembly,
The Honourable Commissioner of Health,
Distinguished representatives of Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies,
Special guests, Colleagues from the CSOs, Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with immense pleasure that I warmly welcome you to this Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on Developing a Road Map for the Implementation of the Kano State Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law (2023). I am truly grateful that each of you has taken the time out of your busy schedules to be part of this important gathering.

Your attendance today is not just a formality; it is a testament to our collective commitment and shared responsibility in addressing one of the most pressing challenges we face maternal and child mortality in our beloved state and country. As we come together, we are united by a common goal: to ensure that every mother and child in Kano State has access to the healthcare services they need and deserve. The implementation of this FMNCH law represents a pivotal step towards achieving that goal, and your insights, expertise, and contributions are vital to shaping a practical and effective Road Map that will guide us in this endeavour.

Today, we have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, share our experiences, and collaborate on strategies that will enhance the quality of maternal and child healthcare in our communities. Each of you brings unique perspectives and knowledge that can help us identify challenges, explore innovative solutions, and ultimately create a sustainable framework for the successful implementation of this law.

Let us seize this moment to foster a spirit of collaboration and partnership, as we work together to build a healthier future for the mothers and children of Kano State. Your involvement is crucial, and I am confident that, together, we can make a significant impact in reducing maternal and child mortality rates and improving health outcomes for our families.

At CHRICED, we are deeply committed to fostering collaboration with the state government and other important stakeholders in the maternal and child healthcare sector in Kano State. Our primary goal is to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of the Kano State FMNCH Law. Recognizing the importance of a united front in tackling the challenges faced in this sector, we have taken the initiative to organize this stakeholders’ consultative meeting. This gathering is designed to promote meaningful dialogue and cooperation among key actors, including government agencies, healthcare providers, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders.

The consultative meeting serves as a platform for all stakeholders to come together, share their insights, and engage in constructive discussions aimed at developing a detailed action plan for the execution of the FMNCH Law. By pooling our collective knowledge and resources, we can identify the most pressing issues, outline strategic priorities, and establish a roadmap that will guide our efforts in improving maternal and child health outcomes in Kano State.

As we move forward, I want to emphasize the importance of your participation in this meeting. I encourage each of you to contribute your valuable insights, experiences, and recommendations. Your expertise is crucial in helping the Kano State Government create a clear framework and actionable work plan that addresses the multifaceted challenges of maternal and child mortality in our state. Together, we can develop innovative solutions and implement effective strategies that will lead to significant improvements in healthcare delivery for mothers and children.

In closing, let us remember that the stakes are high, and the need for action is urgent. The health and well-being of our mothers and children depend on our collective efforts. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and working collaboratively to ensure that the FMNCH Law is not just a document, but a living framework that transforms lives and strengthens our healthcare system in Kano State. Thank you for your commitment and dedication to this critical cause.

Finally, I would like to convey our profound gratitude to MISEREOR/KZE, Germany for their unalloyed support and commitment towards improving the health of women and children in Nigeria, and Kano State in particular. I also wish to express my heartfelt thanks to the Board of Directors and Staff of CHRICED whose tireless efforts have propelled the organization to become a leading advocate for democratic and accountable governance in Nigeria.

Once again, thank you for being here today. I look forward to our discussions and to the fruitful outcomes that will emerge from this gathering. Together, let us pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.