She said, “The partnership seeks to address capacity gaps and behavior change focusing on the following themes – exclusive breastfeeding, immunization, care of newborn and sanitation broadly categories as the Essential Family practices.

“The health policy of the state government provides for free health for children age 0-5, free antenatal care for pregnant women while nursing mothers especially those in government employ now have four months' maternity leave and three months of reduced work hours to promote a sound nutrition growth for their children.

“According to UNICEF report, every year, many children die from preventable diseases before reaching their fifth birthday. Many of these deaths can be avoided if parents and caregivers understand what to do when illness strikes and how to recognize the danger signs that signal the need for medical help”.

Obaisi sought the assistance of the media in disseminating public health information with a view to improve health knowledge and change health behavior.

She said, “Facts for Life provides vital messages and information for mothers, caregivers and communities to use in changing behavior and practices that can save and protect the lives of children and help to grow and develop to their full potentials”.

The bureaucrat lauded UNICEF for its supportive role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of women and children in Ekiti State through her various health-related programs.

Source: Punch