The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) applauds the passage of the Kano State Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Bill by the Kano State House of Assembly, led by Rt. Honorable Hamisu Chidari.
The legislation, which was enacted by the Assembly on May 3, 2023, is the first of its kind in Nigeria, and it provides a comprehensive legal framework for efforts to significantly reduce maternal and child mortality in Kano State.
In a statement, the Executive Director of CHRICED, Comrade Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, commended the Kano State legislature for listening to the yearnings and aspirations of the good people of the State. He said citizens, especially historically marginalized women and youth clamored for the passage of the legislation in order to address the situation where thousands of women sadly lose their lives, while bringing forth other lives.
According to the CHRICED helmsman, the passage of the legislation is a befitting parting gift to citizens by the 9th Kano Assembly.
“The gesture and effort of the Kano State House Assembly with regard to the passage of this Bill is highly commendable,” Zikirullahi said, adding that “the members of the 9th Assembly have demonstrated that they are on the side of the people of the State.” Regardless of political differences, the members overwhelmingly supported the Bill’s passage.
“The passage of this legislation represents a landmark achievement for the health sector, and it will have tremendous influence on maternal and child healthcare.
“For us, this is a turning point in the fight to end maternal and child mortality, which has claimed the lives of thousands of women and children over the years. We are hopeful that Kano State Governor, his Excellency Dr. Umar Ganduje would graciously sign the law to complete the process of institutionalizing free maternal and child healthcare.
“CHRICED is indeed grateful to the entire Kano State House of Assembly, including the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Engr. Hamisu Ibrahim Chidari, as well as all principal officers and members of the Assembly. We are especially grateful to the Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Magaji Zarewa, and Hon. Musa Ali Kachako for sponsoring the Bill and ensuring its passage.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the Kano Emirates Council, particularly the Committee on Health led by His Highness Dr. Basheer Mohammed, whose support was instrumental in the passage of the Bill.
“The road to passage of this FMNCH bill has been long and arduous; we cannot forget the great work of the community men, women, and activists in our focal Local Government Areas (LGAs); fellow CSOs and CBOs, the researchers, the Kano State Ministry of Health and its agencies and departments, and workers.
“Finally, we owe an immense debt of gratitude to our collaborators, Misereor/KZE of Germany, for their trust in us and support in achieving this historic milestone.”
