NAOWA 14 BRIGADE CHAPTER BOOST MATERNAL HEALTH WITH FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH AND SENSITIZATION PROGRAMME*
*NAOWA 14 BRIGADE CHAPTER BOOST MATERNAL HEALTH WITH FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH AND SENSITIZATION PROGRAMME*
The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 14 Brigade Chapter, has reiterated its commitment to the well-being of women and children with the successful conduct of a two-day maternal and child health sensitization programme and a free medical outreach. The program was held on 25 and 26 March 2026 respectively at the 14 Brigade Medical Centre ( BMC).
The initiative, led by the Coordinator, Dr. Shafa’atu Sada Dikko, brought together pregnant women, nursing mothers, and healthcare professionals in an impactful engagement aimed at improving health awareness and access to basic medical services within the Brigade community.
Addressing participants, Dr. Shafa’atu delivered an extensive lecture on antenatal care, emphasizing the importance of early registration, regular clinic attendance, and strict adherence to prescribed medications. She highlighted the role of tetanus toxoid immunization, proper nutrition, adequate rest, and personal hygiene in ensuring safe pregnancies.
The Coordinator also educated the women on pregnancy stages, appropriate drug use, and the need to avoid harmful substances, particularly unverified herbal medications. She stressed the importance of birth preparedness, urging expectant mothers from 28 weeks to make adequate arrangements for delivery, including assembling necessary items and securing reliable transportation to the hospital.
Dr. Shafa’atu also addressed postnatal care issues, encouraging mothers to present their newborns for immunization and adopt exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. She spoke on family planning, childcare practices, and the importance of knowing one’s health status, particularly regarding HIV and Hepatitis, during and after childbirth.
Further sensitization focused on routine medical checks such as urinalysis, blood pressure monitoring, haemoglobin level assessment, and ultrasound scans, as well as identification of danger signs in pregnancy that require immediate medical attention.
Also, beneficiaries received free medical consultations, basic health screenings, and medications as part of the outreach component of the programme, providing immediate healthcare support to participants.
The highlights of the event included interactive session, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.
The combined health sensitization programme and free medical outreach underscores NAOWA’s sustained efforts in promoting maternal and child health through education, advocacy, and direct healthcare support within military formations.
*MAZINHO ATTAH*
Captain
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
14 Brigade
Ohafia
Abia State
27 MARCH 2026
