The Importance of Maternal Health for Stronger Families
Retired nurses have underscored the critical importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles after childbirth, emphasizing that maternal health directly impacts the well-being of newborns. This message was delivered by the Retired Nurse Administrators Healthcare Initiatives (RNAHI) during a sensitization event at Isolo General Hospital in Lagos to mark World Health Day 2025. The theme of this year’s World Health Day, Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures, highlights the essential role of mothers in shaping the health of future generations.
Empowering Women with Health-Seeking Knowledge
Mrs. Olufunke Taiwo, President of RNAHI, stressed that achieving healthy families and communities depends on prioritizing the health of mothers and newborns. She pointed out that the initiative aims to educate women on responsible health-seeking behaviors, which can prevent maternal and infant fatalities. “Healthy mothers lead to healthy families, and a healthy nation begins with healthy mothers,” Taiwo explained.
Post-Childbirth Care: A Key to Long-Term Health
The event focused on raising awareness about proper healthcare practices and the importance of seeking medical help when needed. Taiwo further emphasized that the long-term health of mothers is crucial for a prosperous future, stating that women must be empowered to make informed health decisions. “We want women to know where and how to seek help when facing health challenges,” she added.
Promoting Immunization and Healthcare Innovations
Mrs. Olufunmilayo Akinwande, Chairperson of RNAHI Group One Project, also spoke on the importance of post-childbirth care. She highlighted the need for nursing mothers to adopt healthy lifestyles and properly care for their newborns. Akinwande stressed that immunization remains a key aspect of newborn health, despite persistent misconceptions about vaccines. “We aim to debunk these myths and promote innovations in healthcare,” she said.
Collaborating for Better Healthcare Access and Outcomes
Mrs. Abosede Oloruntegbe, the immediate past president of RNAHI, called for greater collaboration between the government, private sector, and philanthropists to enhance healthcare access and affordability. She urged individuals and organizations to support government efforts, especially as international aid decreases. “Philanthropists are essential to improving healthcare accessibility and outcomes,” Oloruntegbe noted.
A Collective Effort for a Healthier Future
The RNAHI initiative, supported by a dedicated group of members, seeks to empower mothers and communities to prioritize health, ensuring that every mother and child receives the care they deserve for a hopeful future.
