Akwa Ibom Assembly Committee Hails Ibom Open Maternity Initiative, Backs Efforts Against Malnutrition

By Asuquo Edem 

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Health has commended the Ibom Open Maternity (IOM) project for its efforts in tackling malnutrition, maternal health, and child care challenges in the state.

Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Moses Essien, gave the commendation on Thursday in Uyo when the leadership of the project, led by Dr. Aniekeme George, paid a courtesy visit to the Assembly.

Essien, who also chairs the House Committee on Food Sufficiency, described the IOM initiative as “a laudable intervention” that aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, particularly in health and social welfare. He pledged the legislature’s support, including possible legislative backing, to ensure the project’s success.

Expressing concern over recent statistics on child malnutrition, stunting, and underweight cases in the state, Essien said the Assembly would engage relevant ministries and agencies to urgently address the trend. He also endorsed the IOM’s advocacy for exclusive breastfeeding, stressing that it remains the most effective remedy against malnutrition in children.

“As lawmakers, we are prepared to partner with organizations that complement government’s efforts in the health sector because government alone cannot meet these enormous challenges,” he said. “I will personally sponsor a motion to extend maternity leave in the state civil service to six months to support exclusive breastfeeding, as is already practiced in some states.”

The lawmaker further highlighted the role of the State Bulk Purchase Agency in cushioning malnutrition among vulnerable groups and disclosed that more funds had been allocated to relevant MDAs to address health-related concerns.

Earlier, Dr. George, who is also Executive Director of the Carelife Foundation and Team Lead of the IOM project, explained that the initiative seeks to bridge gaps in maternal and infant care by providing pregnant women and nursing mothers with access to medical support.

He noted that the project is being implemented in partnership with organizations including the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), the National Council of Women Societies, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), and the Medical Women Association of Nigeria. The project, he added, is currently active in seven local government areas including Ukanafun, Oruk Anam, Nsit Atai, Ibesikpo Asutan, Eket, and Ikot Abasi.

Meanwhile, during a separate meeting with the State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the Committee appealed to doctors to embrace dialogue in addressing industrial disputes, especially over remuneration.

Essien assured the NMA that their concerns would be addressed, promising that the Assembly would work with relevant authorities to resolve the issues promptly.

The meetings were attended by lawmakers including Hon. Uduak Ekpofot (Etinan), Hon. Lawrence Udoideh (Ini), and Hon. Nsidibe Akata (Eket).