News

CFHI Conducts First FGDs and KIIs Under the BIRTH Project in Adamawa and Zamfara

As part of its Quarter 1 implementation activities, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) successfully conducted its first Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) in selected communities across Adamawa and Zamfara States under the BIRTH Project.

The engagements brought together pregnant women, nursing mothers, community leaders, and key stakeholders to better understand the realities surrounding maternal and newborn health at community and facility levels.

Why This Matter

FGDs and KIIs are critical in ensuring that interventions are community-driven and evidence-based. By listening directly to women and local stakeholders, CFHI is able to identify context-specific barriers, strengthen community ownership, and design responsive strategies that address real challenges.

Key Insights from the Engagements

Discussions across both states revealed:

  • Continued transportation and emergency referral gaps affecting timely access to health facilities
  • Persistent reliance on home births due to cost, accessibility, and trust factors
  • Nutrition misconceptions influencing maternal and infant feeding practices
  • Economic vulnerability limiting women’s ability to seek timely care
  • The need for stronger male involvement and improved health worker-community relationships

Community leaders and stakeholders emphasized the importance of structured emergency transport systems, improved facility readiness, and economic empowerment initiatives to support maternal and newborn health outcomes.

The findings from these Quarter 1 consultations will directly inform the next phase of the BIRTH Project. CFHI remains committed to strengthening health systems, promoting safe deliveries, enhancing nutrition awareness, and empowering women to improve maternal and newborn survival in Adamawa and Zamfara States.

By listening first, we are building interventions that truly respond to community needs ensuring safer pregnancies, healthier newborns, and stronger communities.

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CFHI PARTICIPATES IN TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP SWOT ANALYSIS MEETING TO ADVANCE THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN AND GIRLS

On Wednesday, July 2, 2025, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) joined other key stakeholders at the SWOT Analysis Meeting of the Technical Working Group (TWG), convened by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs. The strategic meeting was held at the Education as a Vaccine (EVA) Office, located in Jahi District, Abuja.

The session brought together organizations and partners committed to improving the well-being of women and girls in Nigeria. Discussions focused on strengthening internal capacity, identifying existing gaps, and exploring collaborative opportunities aimed at delivering more impactful outcomes for gender-focused initiatives.

CFHI’s participation in the meeting reflects its ongoing commitment to evidence-based advocacy, collaboration, and strategic engagement with national structures working to advance the rights, health, and development of women and girls across Nigeria.

As part of the TWG, CFHI remains dedicated to supporting inclusive policies and interventions that empower women and adolescent girls, especially in underserved communities.

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WORLD MENSTRUAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE DAY 2025

To commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) organized an inspiring and impactful outreach at Government Secondary School, Gosa, Abuja, a day dedicated to education, empowerment, and advocacy for menstrual health and hygiene.

The event brought together over 50 students and staff, engaging them in fun, educational, and interactive activities designed to spark open conversations and build confidence around menstrual health. Highlights of the outreach included:

  • ✍🏽 Essay Competition on “My First Period”

  • 🧠 Spelling Bee focused on menstrual health terms and concepts

  • 💬 Interactive Sensitization Session on menstrual hygiene and myths

This outreach created a safe and supportive environment where girls could freely express themselves, ask questions, and learn essential knowledge to manage their periods with dignity.

CFHI remains committed to breaking menstrual taboos, promoting body literacy, and ensuring that no girl is held back because of her period. Through initiatives like this, we continue to raise voices, shift mindsets, and champion access to menstrual products, education, and support for all girls.

  

      

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WORLD HYPERTENSION DAY 2025

The Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) proudly joined other health partners in commemorating World Hypertension Day 2025 in Owerri, Imo State. The event, which held on May 17, was spearheaded by the Imo State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Health Strategy and Delivery Foundation.

Also in attendance were key health-focused organizations including MercyTree Foundation, Population Services International (PSI), Corona Management Systems (CMS), and the World Health Organization (WHO)—all united by a shared commitment to tackling one of the world’s most pressing silent killers: hypertension.

CFHI’s contributions to the outreach were pivotal. The team conducted free blood pressure screenings, educated the public on the importance of accurate blood pressure measurement, and shared practical tips on lifestyle modifications such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, and stress management. These efforts aligned strongly with this year’s theme:
“Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer.”

With a remarkable reach of approximately 8,750 individuals, the event served as a powerful reminder of the role community-centered education and health services play in combating non-communicable diseases. Many participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about their health status and how to manage it proactively.

At CFHI, we understand that prevention is the first step to a healthier life. We remain committed to building healthier communities through awareness, screenings, and advocacy on hypertension and other public health concerns.

As we continue our work, we encourage everyone to know their numbers, monitor their blood pressure regularly, and adopt heart-healthy habits. Together, we can reduce the burden of hypertension and ensure longer, healthier lives for all.

  

 

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CFHI PARTICIPATES IN IMO YOUTH MARATHON – RUNNING FOR PEACE

On May 10th, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), through its Diabetes Awareness and Care (DAC) team, proudly participated in the Imo Youth Marathon – Running for Peace, organized by the Imo State Ministry of Youth and Talent Hunt, under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Mandela Emeka Ukaegbu.

Serving as the official health accreditation body for the event, CFHI conducted free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings for over 300 youth participants. As a result of these screenings, 24 individuals were referred to on-site doctors for further medical evaluation and advice.

The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including the Executive Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Sen. Hope Uzodinma, the Permanent Secretary of the Imo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Okeji Austin, and renowned Nollywood actor Harry B Anyanwu (aka HarryB-Gbese Master), making it a truly impactful and inspiring day for the youth.

  

  

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NATIONAL TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP ON ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN

Yesterday, the Executive Director of the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), Krystal Anyanwu, participated in a meeting of the National Technical Working Group on Ending Violence Against Children, held at the United Nations building in Abuja. The meeting was graced by Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, who emphasized the global commitment to ending all forms of violence against children.

The session brought together key stakeholders working to safeguard the rights and well-being of children in Nigeria. Notable attendees include the Mandate Secretary for the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Hon. Adebayo Benjamin-Laniyi, and the Mandate Secretary for the Health Services and Environmental Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe.

CFHI remains committed to championing child protection initiatives and partnering with national and international stakeholders to build a future where every child is safe, protected, and empowered.

     

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CFHI PARTICIPATES IN 1ST QUARTERLY MHHM TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP MEETING

The Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) proudly participated in the 1st Quarterly Meeting of the Technical Working Group on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHHM), convened by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs. The meeting took place at the Royal Continental Hotel, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

This important gathering brought together key stakeholders from across the country to review progress, exchange best practices, and enhance coordination efforts aimed at improving menstrual health outcomes in Nigeria.

CFHI reaffirms its commitment to advancing menstrual health and hygiene through sustained advocacy, meaningful community engagement, and youth-centered interventions. We continue to collaborate with partners and policymakers to ensure that menstrual health remains a national priority and that no one is left behind.

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CFHI PARTICIPATES IN NATIONAL TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP MEETING ON ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN

On 10th April, Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) participated in the Meeting of the National Technical Working Group on Ending Violence Against Children, held at the United Nations Building on Diplomatic Drive, Central Business District, Abuja.

The gathering brought together key stakeholders to review and deliberate on critical issues surrounding child protection in Nigeria. Discussions focused on the upcoming Child Protection and Child Wellbeing Index Study 2025, Nigeria’s participation in the First Ministerial Conference on Violence Against Children scheduled to take place in Bogotá, Colombia, and the proposed visit of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Violence Against Children to Nigeria.

CFHI remains committed to advancing child protection and well-being through active collaboration with national and international stakeholders.

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CFHI COMMISSIONS A LIBRARY AT LEA PRIMARY SCHOOL, SABON LUGBE

On March 27, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) proudly commissioned a new library at LEA Primary School, Sabon Lugbe, Abuja—a meaningful milestone in our commitment to promoting education and ensuring that students have access to vital learning resources.

This initiative reflects CFHI’s dedication to fostering academic growth and literacy, particularly in underserved communities. The newly established library offers students a welcoming space to read, explore, and expand their knowledge.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who generously donated books to make this vision a reality. Your kindness is helping to create a nurturing environment where young minds can thrive.

Special thanks also go to the school administrators for their warm reception and continuous support.
Together, we are building a future where every child has access to knowledge, opportunity, and hope.        

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COMMEMORATION OF WORLD TUBERCULOSIS DAY

In commemoration of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) joined partners and stakeholders to raise awareness and provide TB testing services through community-based outreach in Abuja and Imo State.

At Sauka Community in Abuja, CFHI reached over 500 individuals with sensitization on TB prevention, early detection, and treatment. The outreach also included health talks and free TB testing services. The event was honored by the presence of Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu (CON)—Global and National Stop TB Champion—who served as the Special Guest of Honour.

In Nkwo Umualumoke, Okigwe LGA, Imo State, CFHI extended its efforts through a targeted TB outreach. A total of 198 individuals were screened, including 50 pregnant women who also received HIV testing. The outreach led to the identification of 42 presumptive TB cases, with HIV-positive individuals immediately linked to appropriate care.

With awareness, testing, and timely treatment, we can achieve a TB-free future.
CFHI remains committed to strengthening community health through integrated TB and HIV services.

          

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