IWD 2026: FCT health secretariat medical outreach delivers surgery, palliatives for women, others
Free surgical care, palliatives and other health support have been provided to women at Kuje General Hospital by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) of the Federal Capital Territory
Free surgical care, palliatives and other health support have been provided to women at Kuje General Hospital by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to mark the 2026 edition of International Women’s Day (IWD).
During the outreach, seven indigent mothers received free surgical palliatives under the Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) Programme, in line with the policy of the Federal Ministry of Health, it was revealed.
In addition, food items, cash support and other provisions were distributed to patients, new mothers, medical personnel and relatives keeping vigil over loved ones in the hospital, Bola Ajao, the Mandate Secretary, Dolapo Fasawe ’s media adviser, said in a statement on Tuesday.
Fasawe said the outreach was aimed at reinforcing the message of the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration that supporting women leads to broader gains for families, communities and society.
According to her, the outreach formed part of activities to commemorate International Women’s Day 2026, themed “Give to Gain,” and to demonstrate the Secretariat’s commitment to improving maternal and family health while reducing the financial burden on women and their families.
“The gesture was meant to appreciate their sacrifices and provide relief for families already dealing with emotional and financial burden of illness,” the Mandate Secretary said.
During the visit, Fasawe interacted with patients, new mothers, caregivers and female health workers who remained on duty attending to the sick rather than celebrating the day at home with their families.
She also highlighted other programmes being implemented by the Secretariat to improve women’s welfare and health outcomes.
These include free health insurance enrolment for vulnerable women, distribution of insecticide-treated nets, cooking gas support, baby kits for newborns and other medical palliatives aimed at ensuring women and their families have access to essential healthcare and safer living conditions.
"The philosophy behind the Secretariat’s interventions is simple, when society supports women, the gains are reflected in healthier children, stronger homes and more resilient communities,” Fasawe said.
She toured several wards during the visit, encouraging patients and their families and commending caregivers who remained with their loved ones through difficult moments.
The Mandate Secretary also offered words of comfort to bereaved families and commended medical personnel at the hospital for their dedication and resilience, according to the statement.
Responding on behalf of the hospital management, the Medical Director, Dr. Ayeni, expressed appreciation for the visit and the humanitarian intervention, noting that it had uplifted the spirits of patients and their families.
