The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on the government and civil society to work together to bring down the high rate of maternal and neonatal mortality in the country.
WHO Country Representative to Nigeria, Dr Walter Kazadi Molumbo, who made the call during a walk to mark World Health Day in Abuja, described as unacceptable, the high rate of maternal and newborn deaths in the country and advocated immediate and coordinated action among stakeholders to reverse the trend.
He noted that while the recent National Demographic Health Survey provides insight into the situation, the previous data already indicated that maternal and neonatal mortality rates in Nigeria remain high.
Molumbo stated that the theme of this year’s World Health Day reminds the world of why the WHO was created, to promote health, save lives, and help people live healthily across all stages of life.
He said, “Nigeria’s maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain alarmingly high, with previous surveys indicating a pressing need for improvement.
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“The country faces significant healthcare challenges, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure, insufficient healthcare workers, and limited access to quality healthcare services.”
Mulombo also disclosed that the WHO has launched the MAMI initiative (Initiative to Accelerate Reduction in Mortality of Mothers and Newborns) in collaboration with the Federal government and partners to accelerate reduction in maternal and neonatal mortality.
“The WHO is committed to working with the government to improve guidelines, strategies, and healthcare worker capacity to respond to the needs of Nigerian communities,” he said.
Mulombo emphasised the need for collective action and a sense of urgency to address these healthcare challenges and achieve the goal of reducing maternal and neonatal mortality by 2030.
“The WHO is engaging with the government, civil society organizations, and communities to ensure a coordinated response to these healthcare challenges,” he said.
He expressed the determination of the WHO to strengthen collaboration with health workers, improve guidelines, and ensure readiness to respond to health needs across the country.
“It’s not about them and us; it’s all of us together. WHO is committed to scaling up its efforts with a sense of urgency,” he added.
The Director of Planning, Research and Statistics Shoretire also highlighted the importance of “healthy beginnings” for women and children, ensuring they have access to quality healthcare services, including antenatal care, skilled birth attendants and family planning.
Shoretire also reiterated that the government launched the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, built on four pillars: effective governance, improving population health outcomes through efficient service delivery, unlocking healthcare value chains to promote local production of medical supplies, and health security, including responding to outbreaks and pandemic threats.
“Nigeria still faces significant healthcare challenges, including a high maternal mortality ratio. However, the government has increased budgetary allocations for healthcare over the past three years and is working to improve primary healthcare through local government autonomy,” he said.
Shoretire also said there is the need for continued investment in healthcare to ensure a healthier future for Nigerians.
“The government and partners aim to work together to address healthcare challenges and achieve the goal of reducing maternal and neonatal mortality.
“By prioritising healthcare, Nigeria can build a successful and happy family, leading to a progressive nation,” he said.