Today, we were at the flag off ceremony of the first round of Polio Outbreak Response (OBR), to mark the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW) in line with the Federal Government spontaneous response.

Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW) is a one-week programme organized for intervention towards immunity against the virus and improved maternal and child health.

The programme will feature Antenatal Care Services and Health Education on Key Household Practices (KHHPs), as hand washing, Exclusive Breastfeeding, H.E. Barr. Chioma Uzodimma at the Adequate complementary feeding, would be re-emphasized. Insecticides treated bed nets and much more would be presented to care givers.

In addition to the availability of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), we have made adequate supply of Vitamin A for children between 6 months to 5 years; Tablets for deworming children between 1 year and 5 years; and multivitamins for pregnant women.

The programme which kicks off officially tomorrow will witness House to House and Outreach Centres Visitations and I enjoin our mothers to avail themselves this great opportunity by visiting the nearest Health Centre with their children for accessibility.

I have urged the Members of the Imo State House of Assembly (IMHA), LGA Interim Management Committee (IMC) Chairmen and members of the IMC to support, mobilize and supervise the Exercise and thereafter, send reports to my office. Also, Traditional Rulers, Town Union Presidents and Religious Leaders, the Mass Media, Agencies of Government as well as NGOs are urged to ensure proper mobilization, to contribute to the success of this Exercise as the services are free and every child's right.

I thank the NPHCDA and other Development Partners, especially, WHO and UNICEF, who have been resolute and in the forefront in ensuring a healthy anddisease-free generation.

H.E. Barr. Chioma Uzodimma
First Lady, Imo State