To accelerate progress, CHRICED convened a two-day Stakeholders Consultative Meeting on the Implementation of the Kano State Free Maternal and Child Healthcare (FMNCH) Law 2023.

In his welcome remarks, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, emphasized the shared responsibility of ensuring that every mother and child in Kano has access to quality healthcare. He called for practical strategies to translate the law into action, stressing that collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, media and civil society organizations is critical.

Despite the signing of the FMNCH Law, challenges remain in its execution. Mr. Omoniyi Adewoye, CHRICED’s Senior Programs Officer, speaking on behalf of Prof. A.B. Ahmed of Bayero University Kano, highlighted that free prenatal and postnatal care, cesarean sections, and treatment for ectopic pregnancies are among the key provisions of the law. However, he emphasized that effective implementation is crucial to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the state.

Stakeholders, including Ajumawa L.A. from the Ministry of Planning and Budget, echoed the need for sustainable enforcement mechanisms and stronger accountability frameworks. He advocated for penalties against individuals who hinder access to maternal healthcare, stressing that women’s health rights must be protected.

Representing the Emir of Kano, HRH Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, Dr. Bashir I. Muhammad, Chairman of the Kano Emirate Council Committee on Health, underscored the need for clear accountability structures to track progress at state, local government, and ward levels.

The meeting, which brought together representatives from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), civil society organizations, and government institutions, reinforced the urgency of developing a structured roadmap to ensure the FMNCH Law translates into real benefits for women and children across Kano State. The meeting was facilitated by Ms. Loveth Anthony-Iyorter, who guided the workshop session and the plenary sessions accordingly.

As CHRICED continues to champion accountability and social justice, this initiative marks another step toward ensuring that healthcare is not just a privilege but a fundamental right.