The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) has renewed calls for stronger action against maternal mortality, stressing that preventable deaths during childbirth remain a major public health challenge in Nigeria.
At a health awareness programme held on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Apapa Area Command, the Association educated members on maternal health, child development, and family planning under its “Healthy Wife, Wealthy Lives” initiative.
Speaking at the event, COWA National President, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, said maternal mortality must be tackled with urgency, noting that improved awareness and access to proper healthcare could save many lives.
“Maternal mortality is something that we should all put our hands on deck to tackle in the country. Over the past months, we’ve had a few women die giving birth. It shouldn’t happen at this age,” she said.
She explained that the programme aims to encourage regular hospital visits, routine check-ups, and self-care practices, while also empowering women to balance family responsibilities with personal well-being.
“The essence of COWA is empowering people and impacting lives. Our mission is to ensure that members are economically and socially empowered, while also equipping them with vital health knowledge to stay alive and strong,” Mrs. Adeniyi added.
Apapa Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, commended the initiative, describing it as a reflection of gender inclusion and women’s leadership in national development.
“Your commitment to female emancipation is encouraging because women are not just part of the conversation—they are leading it, shaping it, and redefining what’s possible,” Oshoba said.
Other Customs Area Controllers present at the event pledged support for the programme. The event also featured the distribution of skills acquisition tools, including sewing machines, industrial ovens, and other equipment, to boost members’ self-reliance and strengthen their families’ economic base.
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