CHRICED Hosts ASKOJ Team in Kano, Urges Media Campaign to Implement FMCH Law Amidst Kano MNCH Crisis

The Resource Center for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) recently hosted the Association of Kano Online Journalists (ASKOJ), led by Chairman Salisu Yakubu, at its Kano secretariat. The meeting was part of CHRICED’s ongoing efforts to engage with journalists to drive forward its mission of improving maternal and child healthcare in the state.

CHRICED has been at the forefront of addressing maternal and child mortality in Kano State, with significant support from Misereor KZE of Germany. Our efforts and support of relevant stakeholders in the state led to the enactment of the Kano State Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law on May 10, 2023, under the administration of Umar Abdullahi Ganduje. This landmark legislation aimed to provide free healthcare services to mothers and children, positioning Kano as the first state in Nigeria to establish such a law.

Despite this progress, the implementation of the law has faced substantial delays due to political shifts. Mr. Omoniyi Adewoye, Senior Program Officer at CHRICED, who spoke on behalf of Executive Director Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, expressed concerns about the law being stalled due to changes in the administration under Governor Yusuf Abba Kabir. He pointed out that what was once a celebrated achievement now risks becoming inactive due to political reluctance.

“The Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law was a significant milestone, but its current dormancy is disheartening,” Omoniyi remarked. “It is frustrating to see the law, which was hailed as a major advancement, now gathering dust due to political maneuvering.”

Omoniyi appealed to ASKOJ to use their media platforms to advocate for the implementation of the law. He emphasized that while the current administration has shown concern for maternal and child health, aligning these efforts with the existing legislation is crucial for continuity and effectiveness.

“There is a law in place that guarantees sustainability,” Omoniyi said. “We need your support to remind the government of the Kano State Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law, 2023. Your role as the fourth estate is essential in pushing for government action on this critical issue.”

In response, ASKOJ Chairman Salisu Yakubu acknowledged CHRICED’s impactful work in human rights and civic advocacy. He assured that ASKOJ members are committed to spotlighting CHRICED’s initiatives and enhancing their capacity to report on sensitive human rights issues effectively.

Yakubu expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “By working with CHRICED, we believe we can raise awareness and drive change regarding the implementation of this crucial law.”

The meeting underscored the need for continued advocacy and media engagement to navigate political challenges and ensure that the law’s benefits for maternal and child health are realized in Kano State.