By Adeyemi Adekunle
Twenty years of anticipation culminated in an emotional and triumphant day for the residents of Gidigbo ward in Iwo as Osun state Governor, Asiwaju Ademola Adeleke inaugurated the long-awaited maternity center. The occasion was marked by a sense of relief and joy as the community finally witnessed the fulfillment of a promise that had lingered for decades.
The newly opened maternity center, supported by the Osun State Community and Social Development Agency (OSUN CSDA), is set to serve 41 compounds within the community, with eight other centers nearing completion in Iwo. This development is not just about providing a physical structure; it represents a lifeline for the women and families of Gidigbo, who have faced numerous challenges due to the lack of adequate maternal healthcare facilities.
For two decades, the absence of a functional maternity center meant that expectant mothers had to travel long distances to access prenatal and postnatal care. This journey was often fraught with difficulties, including poor road conditions and the lack of reliable transportation. Many women had to rely on traditional birth attendants, who, despite their experience, could not provide the comprehensive medical care needed for safe deliveries.
The new maternity center symbolizes a turning point for Gidigbo. It signifies the community’s entry into a new era where maternal health is prioritized, and the well-being of mothers and babies is safeguarded.
The center is equipped with modern medical facilities and staffed by trained healthcare professionals, ensuring that expectant mothers receive the highest standard of care.
During the commissioning exercise, Governor Adeleke highlighted the broader impact of the OSUN CSDA’s efforts under the current state government.
He noted that the agency had supported the implementation of 31 micro-projects across various sectors in different communities. The Gidigbo maternity center is among the four projects inaugurated on that day, which also included two health centres and two borehole water projects.
Governor Adeleke’s speech emphasized the administration’s commitment to systematic interventions aimed at improving the quality of life for the masses. He assured the people of Iwo that the rehabilitation of the Iwo-Osogbo Road would soon be completed, further enhancing access to essential services and boosting the local economy.
The Iwo water works are slated for rehabilitation, and the completion of the Gbongan-Iwo-Oyo road is being pursued in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Works.
The governor’s remarks underscored the administration’s holistic approach to development, recognizing that infrastructure improvements and healthcare advancements are intertwined. The commissioning of the maternity centre is a testament to this approach, as it addresses a critical need while contributing to the broader goal of community development.
For the residents of Gidigbo, the maternity centre is more than just a healthcare facility; it is a beacon of hope and progress. It signifies the government’s recognition of their needs and a commitment to addressing them. The centre’s opening has rekindled the community’s faith in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration.
The center’s impact extends beyond the immediate healthcare needs of expectant mothers. It serves as a hub for health education and awareness, where community members can receive information on various health issues, including disease prevention and nutrition. This aspect is particularly important in light of the recent cholera outbreak in the country, as Governor Adeleke reminded the community to maintain personal and environmental hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.
The governor’s call for regular handwashing, thorough washing of fruits and vegetables, and prompt medical attention for any discomfort reflects the proactive measures necessary to ensure the health and safety of the community. The maternity centre, will be playing a dual role: providing essential maternal healthcare services and acting as a focal point for broader public health initiatives.
As the community of Gidigbo embraces the new maternity centre, there is a collective sense of responsibility to ensure its sustainability.
Governor Adeleke urged the beneficiaries to maintain and adequately care for the facility, recognizing that its long-term success depends on community involvement and stewardship.
This sentiment resonates with the principles of community-driven development, where local participation and ownership are crucial for the sustainability of projects.
The Osun CSDA’s role in facilitating the maternity centre’s construction and ensuring its operational readiness is commendable. The agency’s efforts demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative development approaches that leverage community input and government support.
By working closely with the community, the OSUN CSDA has created a model for future projects, highlighting the importance of grassroots involvement in development initiatives. The maternity centre’s inauguration also underscores the significance of traditional leadership in community development. Governor Adeleke acknowledged the integrity of the Oluwo of Iwoland, reaffirming his role as the President of the Iwoland Traditional Council. This recognition highlights the importance of traditional leaders in fostering community cohesion and supporting development efforts.
As the maternity centre begins its operations, it is poised to transform the lives of many families in Gidigbo. The centre represents a new chapter in the community’s history, where maternal health is no longer a distant aspiration but a tangible reality. For the women of Gidigbo, the centre offers a safe space to receive care, guidance, and support throughout their pregnancy and beyond.
The opening of the maternity centre in Gidigbo ward is a milestone that embodies the community’s resilience and determination. It is a testament to the power of collective action and the impact of government-community collaboration. As the residents of Gidigbo celebrate this achievement, they do so with the knowledge that their voices have been heard, and their needs have been addressed. The maternity center stands as a symbol of hope, progress, and a brighter future for generations to come.
