Gov Otu’s Health Adviser Delivers Malaria Preventives to Safeguard Mothers, Babies
By Ebi COLLINS
The Special Adviser on Health to the Cross River State Government, Dr. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, has strengthened the fight against maternal and infant mortality with the donation of 100 doses of Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine (SPs) to the Antenatal Care (ANC) unit of the General Hospital, Calabar.
The gesture, carried out in partnership with the State Malaria Elimination Program, is part of the government’s broader effort to protect mothers and their unborn children from malaria, one of the deadliest threats to pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa.
Speaking during the handover, on Monday, Dr. Bassey highlighted the life-saving value of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in Pregnancy (IPTp), explaining that the regimen is administered every four weeks from the 13th week of gestation until delivery. He stressed that consistent use of the drugs drastically reduces the risk of severe malaria and its often fatal complications for both mother and child.
“Malaria in pregnancy is among the leading causes of maternal and infant deaths in Africa. Yet this simple intervention, when taken regularly, can prevent tragedy and save countless lives. I urge every pregnant woman to take advantage of SPs during antenatal care,” Dr. Bassey advised.
He noted that the initiative reflects Governor Bassey Otu’s People First agenda, which prioritizes the health and well-being of women and children. According to him, the donation is not merely about providing drugs but about demonstrating government’s enduring commitment to safer pregnancies and healthier families. He also commended the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, for steering landmark reforms in the sector as he marks his second year in office.
Reinforcing this commitment, the State Malaria Elimination Program Manager, Mr. Kanu James, assured that government will continue to strengthen maternal and child health interventions, with a clear focus on reducing malaria cases across the state.
Medical personnel at the General Hospital added their voices, urging expectant mothers to attend antenatal clinics regularly and comply fully with prescribed preventive treatments. They also called on families, community leaders, and health workers to support pregnant women in accessing these essential services.
