By Tunde Akinleye
https://www.digital.zenithbank.com/ZEQ/ZEQ-jan-2026/index.html#p=1Motherhood is often celebrated as one of life’s greatest blessings, but behind the joy of pregnancy, childbirth and family life are women quietly navigating emotional, physical and financial pressures. While mothers are expected to care for their families and homes, many receive little support for their own wellbeing.
It is against this backdrop that Moms Aloud Initiative, a non-profit organisation, is creating platforms where women can access practical support, health information, encouragement and emotional care.
From Broadcasting to Community Action
Although Moms Aloud Initiative was formally launched on July 16, 2024, its foundation was laid years earlier through the broadcasting career of its founder, Foluke Owolabi, a health communicator and broadcaster.
Through radio, Owolabi spent years educating women and families on health and social issues. However, she discovered that information alone was often insufficient. Many women needed someone to listen to them, provide practical assistance and help them navigate the challenges of motherhood.
She subsequently established Moms Aloud Initiative on her 40th birthday, with a vision of helping women live healthier, stronger and more fulfilling lives.
The organisation initially focused on pregnant women and nursing mothers, particularly their emotional wellbeing and the practical challenges associated with early motherhood.
A Mission Driven by Compassion
Explaining the motivation behind the initiative, Owolabi said many women face enormous expectations with inadequate support.
Moms Aloud Initiative was born out of a burden to help women unburden, find support and regain the strength to function as close to their full potential as possible.”
According to her, the organisation seeks to help women discover and fulfil their potential while making meaningful contributions to their families and communities.
“That is the mission that has guided us over the past two years, and by God’s grace, we hope to continue reaching many more women in the years ahead,” she added.
Moms Health First: The Beginning of Community Outreach
The organisation marked its first anniversary on July 19, 2025, with Moms Health First, its maiden community outreach programme.
Held at Falao Community Primary School in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State, the programme reached about 70 women from Falao, Ajanbata, Aba Oso and neighbouring communities.
In collaboration with Frontida Zoiz Initiative, healthcare professionals and volunteers provided free medical services and health education.
The Thyroid Care Association of Nigeria, led by its founder, Dr Adefemi Afolabi, a consultant endocrine surgeon, also participated in the programme. Afolabi educated participants about thyroid diseases, an often-overlooked health concern affecting women.
The beneficiaries received malaria tests, Hepatitis B screening, blood pressure checks, health education, antimalarial drugs and other essential medicines.
For some participants, the experience was both practical and reassuring.
One beneficiary said:“I’m really blessed. We had our blood pressure checked, hepatitis B screening and malaria tests.”
Another participant, Mrs Comfort Ekaneghe, speaking in Yorùbá, said the programme encouraged women to seek medical attention before health problems became severe.
“We’ve been told not to keep quiet until our health issues get out of hand.”
The Nurture Tour Takes Support to More Women
Building on the success of its first outreach, Moms Aloud Initiative marked its second anniversary with The Nurture Tour, held from July 22 to 30, 2026.
Organised in partnership with Frontida Zoiz Initiative, the outreach reached mothers at Ajibode Primary Health Centre in Akinyele Local Government Area and the University Health Service (Jaja Clinic), University of Ibadan, in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The programme went beyond the distribution of relief materials. Participants were engaged in conversations on maternal mental health, emotional wellbeing, self-care and the importance of seeking help instead of suffering in silence.
A major feature of the tour was the distribution of Nurture Kits, containing essential mother-and-baby care items donated by individuals who support the organisation’s vision.
For some beneficiaries, the assistance came at a crucial time. One nursing mother at the University Health Service expressed gratitude after receiving diapers for her baby.
“This morning, I didn’t have the money to buy diapers, but they gave me diapers. I really appreciate it.”
Another beneficiary, Mrs Andu Esther, said the programme changed her approach to motherhood.
“So far, I’ve learnt to prioritise my health. I shouldn’t be overwhelmed. I shouldn’t be so anxious.”
At Ajibode Primary Health Centre, Ms Itunuoluwa Akintola appealed for the initiative to reach more women, noting that many women struggle with depression.
Mrs Faisha Babalola also emphasised the importance of self-care, saying women should remember that their wellbeing affects those around them.
Speaking in Yorùbá, Mrs Jamiu Mariam said the programme broadened her understanding of womanhood, marriage and personal development.
“I learnt that a woman deserves more. We were enlightened on how to live in marriage and how we can also be independent.”
Supporting Vulnerable Children
The Nurture Tour also extended its intervention to Hallelujah Home of Refuge, along the Alagogo axis of Ajibode in Akinyele Local Government Area.
There, the team donated a large baby cot to support the care of vulnerable children.
The gesture underscored the organisation’s broader commitment to supporting both mothers and children within communities.
Collaboration as a Catalyst for Impact
Within two years of its establishment, Moms Aloud Initiative has demonstrated the value of collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by women.
The organisation acknowledged the contribution of Frontida Zoiz Initiative, whose partnership has supported both Moms Health First and The Nurture Tour.
It also recognised the efforts of healthcare professionals, volunteers, donors and partner organisations, including the Thyroid Care Association of Nigeria, for their expertise and support.
The Road Ahead
As it looks to the future, Moms Aloud Initiative plans to expand its work in maternal mental health advocacy, health education, community-based interventions and practical support for women.
The organisation believes that supporting women’s physical and emotional wellbeing can contribute to stronger families and more resilient communities.
It is therefore calling on individuals, corporate organisations, development partners, philanthropic foundations and volunteers to support its mission through donations, professional services, mother-and-baby care items and strategic partnerships.
For Moms Aloud Initiative, the journey is only beginning. Its message is clear: no woman should have to carry life’s burdens alone. With compassion, encouragement and the right support, women can heal, thrive and fulfil their potential.
