🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Sokoto mobilizes 244 ward leaders to combat maternal and child mortality
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The Sokoto State Government has intensified efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality and improve immunization coverage by mobilizing community leaders across its 244 wards. This initiative was launched during a two-day orientation workshop for Ward Development Committees, supported by the European Union's Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health Programme and the Community Engagement and Accountability initiative. The workshop, held in Sokoto, gathered WDC chairmen, women leaders, and other community stakeholders from the state's 23 local government areas. Dahiru Gada, Director of Advocacy and Social Mobilization for the Sokoto State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, emphasized that these committees act as a bridge between health authorities and rural communities, educating residents on available health services and the benefits of accessing them. He stressed the crucial role of community leaders in addressing misconceptions, building trust, and encouraging residents, especially pregnant women, to attend antenatal clinics and deliver in health facilities. The sensitization also covered adolescent health and routine immunization. Gada noted that functional Ward Development Committees have been established in all 244 wards. Bala Gadanga, Chairman of the Sokoto State Ward Development Committees, stated that the program's success relies on community participation, with participants cascading knowledge and mobilizing residents for house-to-house effort
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadPeter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has criticized the remand of activist Omoyele Sowore at the Kuje Correctional Centre, labeling it a "dangerous regression for our democracy." Obi's reaction follows a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja where Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore's remand pending the determination of his application to stay an earlier order revoking his bail. The court also dismissed an application seeking the judge's recusal. Obi stated that this development reflects a worrying trend that could undermine civic freedom, warning against the growing use of state institutions to stifle dissent. He emphasized that democracy relies on protecting fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, rather than suppressing critical voices. Obi cautioned that continued pressure on civic space could deepen public distrust, especially during economic hardship and insecurity. He urged authorities to ensure strict adherence to constitutional protections and due process, stating that treating critics as threats signals a dangerous slide toward authoritarianism. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project also criticized Sowore’s detention, raising concerns about judicial independence and shrinking civic space in Nigeria.
Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu announced that the man accused of assaulting an 18-year-old woman in a viral video is now in police custody. Gwamnishu revealed on Instagram that preliminary findings indicate the woman, identified as Chisom, was 15 years old when her relationship with the suspect reportedly began. Her father was unaware of any alleged marriage. The development follows a disturbing video showing a visibly injured young woman, identified as an 18-year-old wife, with her husband exchanging words with neighbors over alleged abuse. A separate video showed the woman at a hospital with Gwamnishu, where she initially pleaded against the man's arrest. However, the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation's Lagos chapter intervened, leading to the suspect's detention at the Isheri Oshun Divisional Police Headquarters. Gwamnishu also received a call from a relative of Chisom's father, who stated that Chisom and her siblings were taken away after their mother's death when Chisom was seven. The relative claimed Chisom's father became depressed and was unaware of any marriage involving Chisom. Gwamnishu stated that the organization would continue to support Chisom, noting her deep trauma and the need for protection and understanding as investigations proceed. His Lagos State Director, Nta Amarachi Judith, is actively following up on the matter.
Royal Air Maroc has announced a promotional fare for flights from Lagos to Los Angeles, starting from ₦1,454,000. This fare is presented as a more affordable option compared to other airlines, which often charge over ₦2.2 million for similar return tickets. The route includes a connection through Casablanca, aiming to provide a smoother transit experience for travelers. This offer is available during the peak travel season and is intended for Nigerian families, entrepreneurs, and students traveling to the US West Coast. Travelers are advised to book early due to a limited number of promotional seats.