Kano to boost maternal, child health services

The Kano State Government has unveiled a communication plan to boost demand for reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health and nutrition services across the state.

This was unveiled at a workshop held from June 20 to 22, 2025, at Quarterhouse Hotels in Malali GRA, Kaduna, organised by the state Ministry of Health in collaboration with MSI Nigeria Reproductive Choices and other development partners.

The development was announced in a statement on Monday by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Ministry of Health, Nabilusi Abubakar K/Na’isa.

Stakeholders from government agencies, civil society organisations, youth groups, traditional institutions, and the media participated in the session, which focused on designing an inclusive Social and Behaviour Change Communication strategy tailored to Kano’s health needs.

Speaking at the opening session, the Commissioner for Health, Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, who was represented by the Director General of the Drugs, Medical and Consumables Supply Agency, Pharmacist Gali Sule, said the initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to improving health-seeking behaviours, particularly among women, children, and adolescents.

Strategic communication remains a powerful tool in transforming harmful cultural practices and improving access to essential health services,” Sule said.

Participants at the workshop were grouped into thematic clusters to assess social norms, behavioural challenges and key enablers influencing health service uptake in the state. Technical experts and consultants also delivered presentations on global best practices and evidence-based SBCC models.

The strategy, according to organisers, was developed through an inclusive, data-driven process and will serve as a roadmap for implementing community dialogue sessions, interpersonal communication, mass media campaigns, and digital outreach efforts.

Development partners who supported the effort include UKaid, Lafiya Programme, Society for Family Health, A360 Project, and Matasa Matan Arewa.

At the close of the workshop, participants expressed optimism that the SBCC blueprint would enhance community engagement, empower women and young people, and help reduce maternal and child mortality in Kano State.