Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, the First Lady of Kogi State, has reiterated her commitment to advancing women’s empowerment, improving access to healthcare, and addressing drug abuse as she extended New Year greetings to the people of the state.
In her message, Mrs. Ododo also pledged continued support for youth development and assistance to vulnerable groups.
A statement released by her media office on Friday highlighted her resolve to champion initiatives that create economic and social opportunities for women in Kogi State.
The First Lady expressed her appreciation for the efforts of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, whose “Renewed Hope Initiative” has positively impacted Nigerian women, including those in Kogi, by fostering economic growth and capacity building.
As part of her New Year outreach, Mrs. Ododo led various activities focused on healthcare support, family welfare, and anti-drug advocacy. Over 120 patients received antenatal kits, medical supplies, food items, and financial aid as part of her efforts to alleviate economic challenges for families during the festive season.
She visited several healthcare facilities, including the Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital in Iruvochinomi, where she emphasized the importance of timely antenatal care and urged women to prioritize their health and safety. Healthcare workers were encouraged to uphold professionalism and dedication to saving lives.
Dr. Jibrin Umar, President of the Association of Resident Doctors at the Federal University Lokoja Teaching Hospital, commended the First Lady’s healthcare interventions and called for sustained government investment in addressing staffing challenges in the health sector.
During her visits, Mrs. Ododo also distributed gift items to families, advocating for family unity and encouraging women to support their husbands and instill discipline and security within their households.
The First Lady also raised concerns about the rising issue of drug abuse among youth, calling on parents and stakeholders to play an active role in tackling the problem. Speaking at the Hajia Nana Hawawu Oziohu Memorial Hospital in Upogoro, she urged mothers to engage closely with their children and address their challenges proactively.
“Drug abuse is tearing apart our future generation, and as mothers, we must rise to the challenge. Bring your children closer, understand their issues, and guide them on the right path,” she said.
Mrs. Ododo’s initiatives during the festive season reflect her vision for a unified and empowered Kogi State, with sustainable development at its core. As the state steps into 2025, she called for continued support for her husband, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, to ensure the administration delivers lasting benefits to the people.
Beneficiaries of her outreach expressed gratitude for her compassion and timely interventions, describing her efforts as a lifeline for struggling households.
