By Udeme Boniface Hosea

The Ibom Open Maternity, IOM, Project ended its 2026 edition on Friday 14/08/2026 with 36,477 beneficiaries recorded across 20 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking during the grand finale of Ibom Open Maternity project sponsored by the CARE LIFE Character Foundation at Ibom Hall, Uyo, the convener of the Project, Dr. Aniekeme George, who released the figures, said the initiative was built on taking succour to people at the grassroots through collaboration between government, partners and communities.

He noted the project started in 2025 covering 7 LGAs reached about 17,000 mothers and children, before expanding in 2026. “It was an ambitious target and we have achieved it,” he stated.

Dr. George also highlighted the benefits to include improved access to maternal and child health services in underserved communities, stronger infant and maternal outcomes and increased awareness on nutrition and breastfeeding.

He announced their future plans of deepening data collection and advocate for more support structures.
“We are committed to improving maternal, newborn and child health outcomes across Akwa Ibom. The expansion will help us gather more information, strengthen our interventions and ensure women and children get the care and support they need,” he said.

The Convener of the project also appealed for more IMAM centres and an open maternity food bank.

“If a mother hears that her child will be given food when she takes the child for a check-up, she will not miss her check-ups.”

The state Commissioner of Health, Dr Emmanuel Ekem represented by the Executive Secretary, Akwa Ibom State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Eno Attah, commended CARE LIFE Foundation for traversing the 20 LGAs for the sensitization and support.

She threw more light on the benefits of breastfeeding, noting that it boosts infant immunity, reduces child mortality, prevents malnutrition and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
“Maternal and child healthcare remains a key area that requires sustained support and collaboration. We must encourage initiatives producing positive results,” she said.

Earlier in his opening remarks, who double as the ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Uyo LGA, Rt. Hon. Uwemedimoh Udoh who described the program as impactful, appreciated partners for their energy in improving health conditions in the state and reaffirmed commitment to more health programs.
“We have invested huge resources in equipping primary health centers with modern facilities in Uyo Local Government Area, we will continue to commit resources to address health challenges at the primary level,” he said.

Dr. Udoh further applauded his wife, Mrs. Akaniyene Udoh, for supporting women’s issues in the area. He also lauded WALGON for their contributions, stressing government’s readiness to work with agencies and organizations that share its vision for better healthcare delivery.

The event ended with the recognition of deserving personalities and organizations for outstanding service to maternal and child health. Honorees included the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Uwemedimoh Udoh, and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, alongside other partners whose commitment has advanced the goals of the IOM Project.