By Solomon OKPO
The Ibom Open Maternity (IOM) Coalition has released the final implementation timetable for the 2026 Ibom Open Maternity Project, confirming that free integrated medical missions will be conducted across 20 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State from August 3 to August 13 as part of activities marking the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.
The IOM Core Technical Team said the final schedule followed a review of the initial implementation plan, with some Local Government Areas originally listed removed to enable the coalition concentrate available resources on the selected 20 LGAs for greater impact and improved service delivery.
According to the approved timetable, activities will begin on Saturday, August 1, with an Advocacy Road Walk in Uyo aimed at creating public awareness and officially flagging off the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week celebration. The event is expected to boost public sensitization ahead of the statewide medical outreach.
The medical mission will commence on August 3 in Ukanafun and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas, while Ikono and Ini will host the outreach on August 4. Medical teams will move to Nsit Ibom and Nsit Ubium on August 5.
On August 6, the outreach will hold in Oron and Urue-Offong/Oruko, followed by Ikot Abasi and Mkpat Enin on August 7. Residents of Nsit Atai and Ibesikpo Asutan will benefit from the programme on August 8.
Following a one-day break, the medical mission will resume on August 10 in Itu and Ibiono Ibom. Esit Eket and Ibeno will be covered on August 11, while Abak and Ika will host the outreach on August 12. The final phase of the programme will take place on August 13 in Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim Local Government Areas.
The coalition said the two-week maternal and child health intervention will culminate in a grand finale on August 14 in Uyo, featuring the conclusion of free medical services, maternal and child health education, advocacy campaigns, and other activities commemorating the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.
Speaking on the programme, the Team Lead and Coordinator of the Ibom Open Maternity Project, Aniekeme George, reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare, particularly for pregnant women, nursing mothers, children and other vulnerable groups across Akwa Ibom State.
He urged residents of the benefiting Local Government Areas to take full advantage of the free medical services, noting that the initiative is designed to reduce maternal and infant mortality, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and promote healthier communities across the state.
George also appreciated partner organisations for their collaboration and commitment to the project, while commending the leadership of relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for supporting the planning process.
He further lauded the chairmen of the participating Local Government Areas for their partnership and support, describing their commitment as a demonstration of their dedication to the health and well-being of their people.
The 20 benefiting Local Government Areas are Ukanafun, Oruk Anam, Ikono, Ini, Nsit Ibom, Nsit Ubium, Oron, Urue-Offong/Oruko, Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, Nsit Atai, Ibesikpo Asutan, Itu, Ibiono Ibom, Esit Eket, Ibeno, Abak, Ika, Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim.
