Ibrahim Suleiman
A Paediatric Specialist at the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Shika, Zaria, Dr. Fatima Abdullahi, has called on pregnant women to prioritize early antenatal attendance to promote safe motherhood and reduce pregnancy-related complications.
Dr. Abdullahi made the call during a Health Education Workshop on Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) and Community Birth Surveillance for Men, organised by the Faith and Cultural Champions of Al’Mannar Women Association at Sarki Musa Primary School, Kwarba, Zaria.
The specialist stressed that early and regular antenatal care enables healthcare providers to identify and manage risk factors that may endanger the lives of both mother and child. She listed danger signs in pregnancy—such as severe headache, high fever, vaginal bleeding, persistent vomiting, and sharp abdominal pain—and urged women experiencing any of these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
Dr. Fatima noted that the sensitization programme specifically targeted men, youths, and young women, emphasising the crucial role that male support plays in ensuring pregnant women access quality healthcare.
She appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other influencers to continue championing initiatives that improve maternal and child health outcomes within their communities.
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Earlier, the Ameerah of Al’Mannar Women Association, Hajiya Rabi Umar Sodangi, said the workshop was designed to enlighten men and adolescent girls on the importance of antenatal care, safe delivery, and the overall wellbeing of mothers and newborns.
She underscored the need for men to provide moral, financial, and physical support to their pregnant wives, especially in attending antenatal clinics and ensuring delivery in recognized health facilities.
In her remarks, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Hajiya Ummulkuthum Mohammed Ali, commended participants for their dedication to improving community health.
Also speaking, the representative of the District Head of Zaria and Kewaye, Alhaji Ibrahim Sarki, assured that traditional leaders would continue to support efforts aimed at educating men on the importance of antenatal care and hospital delivery. He pledged continued collaboration with relevant health and community groups to enhance family health practices across the emirate.
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Some participants expressed readiness to share the knowledge gained with others to improve pregnancy outcomes in their communities.
The workshop drew men, youths, women leaders, and health professionals from various communities across Zaria.