Twenty-one Five Child Foundation (T1FF), a non-governmental organization, on Tuesday distributed free birth kits to pregnant teenagers at Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo state.
The program that was held at the State Hospital, Yemetu in Ibadan was organized to help pregnant teenage girls navigate through the life-changing and emotional decisions they are facing.
T1FF believes that pregnant teenagers need prompt and straightforward information and judgment-free medical guidance, support, and care.
According to the T1FF, the distribution of birth kits and support for pregnant teenagers is part of its activities to round up events for the year 2023.
The founder, Ambassador Tolu Taiwo said the Twenty-one Five Child Foundation was established to Support, Educate, and Empower pregnant teenagers on basic maternity practices for safe delivery as well as to improve birth outcomes and ensure that birth practices are clean and safe.
While speaking at the distribution exercise, Amb. Tolu Taiwo said it is not just about gifting birth kits but also creating breast cancer awareness and free screening services for all persons irrespective of age, and medical eligibility, especially rural women.
She said it is important that women practice a self-examination at all times to observe changes within and around their breasts for early detection.
They should also get screened and receive appropriate and timely follow-up, diagnosis, and treatment, this will help with the reduction of cancer cases among women.
Responding, Oyo state commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun encouraged the young pregnant teenagers, asking them not to lose hope irrespective of their predicament, stating that the present situation should not define their aspiration but be an inspiration for them towards greater heights.
Mrs Toyin Balogun added that her ministry, with the support of state governor, Seyi Makinde has created a platform to nurture young women with parental issues, unwanted pregnancies, and all sorts.
She thereafter assured T1FF of the state government’s collaboration on other projects shortly.
The CEO of Zeeza Events, Mrs Titi Azeez also promised to train interested participants on event management and decoration for free.
Others present at the health program are, Hon Ayo Fatokun (Founder, Ayo Fatokun Foundation, Mrs Titi Azeez (CEO, Zeeza Events, Mrs. Bobola Agbeja, and representatives from the Oyo State Ministry of Health among other dignitaries.
