By Sandra Kenneth
In commemoration of World Breastfeeding Week 2026, the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP) has reiterated its commitment to expanding access to affordable, quality healthcare for mothers and newborns across the state.
The annual awareness week, observed globally from August 1 to 7, saw the social health agency participate in a series of outreach events organized to highlight the critical health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding.
Speaking during a series of commemorative activities, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of RIVCHPP, Dr. Vetty Agala, emphasized that adequate nutrition and quality medical care during infancy are fundamental to long-term child development.
“A healthy start begins at birth,” Dr. Agala stated in an official release by the agency. “Every child deserves the best possible start in life, and breastfeeding is one of the most vital gifts a mother can give. At RIVCHPP, we believe every mother and child deserves seamless access to quality healthcare from pregnancy through infancy.”
As part of activities marking the week, Dr. Agala joined health personnel and state officials on Monday at the Garrison Annexe of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) for a flagship event hosted by the State Ministry of Health.
Additionally, RIVCHPP extended its outreach to Ogu Town, headquarters of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, during a community health event organized by the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board (PHCMB).
Addressing residents at the Ogu Town flag-off, Dr. Agala reaffirmed that RIVCHPP’s health insurance packages are structured to shield families from out-of-pocket medical expenses, ensuring continuous care for mothers and infants across all 23 local government areas.
“We are deeply concerned about the health of our mothers and children, and we recognize that breastfeeding is critical for a sustainable start in life. RIVCHPP remains committed to expanding coverage for all children, mothers, and residents across Rivers State,” she said.
