PRESS RELEASE
Rivers State Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu has urged people with reproductive health challenges not to shy away from discussing such issues.
Prof. Ngozi Odu stated this during the 13th Annual International Conference of Association for Fertility and Reproductive Health (AFRH) in Port Harcourt on Thursday, 21st September, 2023.
She said “the theme “Fertility Treatment without Borders” is an important one, as we consider both the incredible scientific advances that are expanding possibilities for building families, as well as the ethical, economic, and socio-cultural impact these technologies may have”.
The Deputy Governor expressed the hope that people should approach this topic openly and compassionately, insisting that a problem shared is half solved.
“We are all aware of the stigma and discrimination people who have challenges with conception and childbirth face in Nigeria, especially women, irrespective of the root cause which has led to the brokerage of marriages”. She further stressed.
Prof. Odu commended the Association of Fertility and Reproductive Health (AFRH) in the high rate of successes recorded in ART, and encouraged them to keep up the momentum.
“We look forward to the insights you will undoubtedly share that uphold our collective contributions to humanity. We believe that the communiqué that will be issued at the end of this all important conference will take processes of ART to another level. The chance to shape history in ART in Nigeria is in this room”. The Deputy Governor quipped.
The Deputy Governor who said, the immediate past Administration under the watch of Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, had a great impact on the health sector, like the construction and equipping of the Mother and Child Hospital, added that in the spirit of continuity, the Sir Siminalayi Fubara led Administration will consolidate and build on the foundation laid by former Governor.
Earlier, the Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, regretted that infertility in our society still attracts high level of stigma as child bearing is considered as the hallmark of womanhood, whilst regarding women with the inability to bear children as incomplete.
In his remarks, the President, Association for Fertility and Reproductive Health, Dr. Preye Fiebai, called for the domestication of the AFRH Assisted Reproductive Technology practice guidelines in Rivers State, noting that the association remains committed to achieving such goals.
Delivering his keynotes address, on the theme: “Fertility Treatment Without Borders” Dr. Ibrahim Wada, said Nigeria is gradually becoming a tourist hub for fertility treatment in the world, due it’s culture, talents and resilience.
Owupele Benebo
Head of Press,
Deputy Governor’s Office, Port Harcourt.
Thursday September 21st, 2023.
