Wife of Ebonyi State governor Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru weekend flagged off Baby Shower Initiative targeting 17,000 pregnant and nursing mothers.

Performing the flag off at her office in Abakaliki, Mrs. Nwifuru noted that the programme was supported by Ebonyi State Ministry of Health in collaboration with BERWO Foundation, adding that it was designed to support our pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers with essential items, health education, and access to maternal care.

Mrs. Nwifuru believed that every mother and baby deserves dignity, a healthy start, and no woman should die while giving life, adding that the items will be distributed throughout all the health facilities in the state.

She noted that apart from targeting 17 thousand pregnant and nursing across the 177 wards that make up the state, the initiative will encourage antenatal attendance, safe delivery practices, nutrition awareness, breastfeeding, and emotional support for our mothers-to-be.

She said, “It is with a heart full of joy and deep gratitude to God that I welcome you all to this very special occasion, the official flag-off of the Ebonyi State Baby Shower Initiative and Maternity Day.”

“As First Lady, and as a mother, I understand the joys and the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood, and I also understand that while motherhood should bring hope and happiness, for many women, especially in rural areas, it is often a journey of fear. So this is why this initiative is close to my heart.”

“The Baby Shower Initiative is not just about gifts and celebration. It is a strategic and compassionate intervention by the Ministry of Health and BERWO Foundation, designed to support our pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers with essential items, health education, and access to maternal care.”

“In Ebonyi State, we believe that every mother deserves dignity, every baby deserves a healthy start, and no woman should die while giving life. Through this program, we are encouraging antenatal attendance, safe delivery practices, nutrition awareness, breastfeeding, and emotional support for our mothers-to-be.”

“Let me use this opportunity to thank our state Ministry of Health led by Dr. Moses Ekuma, the BERWO Foundation team, healthcare workers who continue to serve with compassion, skill, and resilience. You are the silent heroes behind every healthy delivery and every saved life.”

“To our mothers here today and across Ebonyi State: You are strong. You are valuable. And you are the heartbeat of our communities. Today, we celebrate you not just for bringing forth life, but for being the pillars of families and society.”

“I encourage you to attend your antenatal and postnatal appointments, listen to the advice of health professionals, and take care of your health and that of your babies. Your health is your strength.”

“In conclusion, I pray that this initiative will grow into a legacy of love and care for generations to come. May God bless all the mothers of Ebonyi State, bless our children, and bless our dear state.”