The Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN) Kano Chapter, Pathfinder International, ACEPHAP, and CCSI, inaugurated Maternal, Newborn, Child Nutrition and Health (MNCNH) Advocacy Champions in Kano State.
Held at KSCHMA headquarters, the event marked a pivotal moment in the implementation of the AIM-MNCNH project, a national initiative designed to build a strong advocacy network for evidence-based maternal and child health interventions in Nigeria.
A highlight of the event was the official recognition of Dr. Rahila Aliyu Muktar, Executive Secretary of KSCHMA, as the Super Champion of the MNCNH advocacy movement in Kano.
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Dr. Muktar, also an Immediate Past President of MWAN Kano, was crowned Super Champion in recognition of her outstanding leadership in policy formulation, maternal health systems development, and commitment to community health equity.
“Our goal is to ensure no woman dies while giving life. These champions will help amplify community voices and influence policy decisions to improve maternal and child health outcomes,” said Dr. Muktar during her keynote address.
The newly inaugurated champions were selected for their deep community ties, technical expertise, and proven track record in health advocacy. They include:
Dr. Sha’awa Mardi’yah Sa’id – Oral health and immunization advocate
Salisu Yusuf – Civil society leader and maternal health budget expert
Hajiya Salamatu Ibrahim – Former Deputy Director, KSCHMA; Islamic women’s health advocate
Nafisa Murtala Ahmad – Radio producer, media consultant, and RMNCAH+N storyteller
Fatima Abdu – Public health nurse and community trainer
Maryam Mustapha – Community health officer and immunization regional champion
Dr. Usman Bashir – DG, SACA; paediatric public health expert
Dr. Maryam Sa’id Auwal – Obstetrician dedicated to safe motherhood
Dr. Hadiza Ashiru Usman – Neonatologist and newborn care researcher
The AIM-MNCNH initiative will leverage their collective influence to accelerate policy reform, community engagement, and frontline service delivery within Kano State’s existing RMNCAH+N Technical Working Group.
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As the pilot state, Kano sets the precedent for national rollout, and the collaborative momentum established during the inauguration promises lasting impact on maternal and child health across Nigeria.