The Nigerian Governors’ Wives Forum (NGWF) has urged governors and state legislators across the 36 states to implement a six-month paid maternity leave policy to enhance maternity and child welfare in Nigeria.
This appeal was made in a communiqué issued on Thursday at the conclusion of the forum’s annual retreat, held at the Exco Chambers of Centenary City, Abakaliki.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, its chairperson, Olufolake Abdulrazaq, wife of the Kwara State governor, emphasized the critical role of the policy in improving maternal and child health outcomes.
“The forum pledged to vigorously advocate for adopting six months of paid maternity leave, engaging executive governors and state legislators to promote this policy across all states for improved maternity and child welfare,” Abdulrazaq stated.
Support for Girls’ Health Initiatives
The forum also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) Initiative, focusing on protecting girls’ health. Mrs. Abdulrazaq highlighted ongoing efforts to promote the uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, a key step in preventing cervical cancer.
“Our next step is a targeted sensitization campaign, starting with the wives of local government chairmen, to raise awareness about the HPV vaccine and cancer prevention,” she added.
Tribute to Late Member
The retreat, hosted by the wife of Ebonyi State governor, Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, was attended by 23 governors’ wives. A one-minute silence was observed in memory of Patience Eno, wife of the Akwa Ibom State governor, who passed away on September 26.
Mrs. Nwifuru expressed gratitude for the forum’s visit and reiterated the importance of its advocacy efforts.
