Ekiti State has demonstrated impressive progress in critical health indicators, according to the latest Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) report. Released on Sunday in Abuja, the report points to substantial improvements in maternal and child health, with notable advances in access to healthcare services across the state.
The report reveals a 50 per cent reduction in neonatal, infant and under-five mortality rates over the past five years, underscoring Ekiti’s efforts to improve healthcare outcomes. Key statistics show a 30 per cent decrease in teenage pregnancy rates, a 30 per cent drop in unmet needs for family planning and a 14 per cent increase in facility-based deliveries, reflecting enhanced healthcare access and outcomes.
According to the NDHS, approximately 45,000 additional children under five were saved from preventable deaths between 2019 and 2024, representing a 75 per cent survival rate improvement over 2018 figures. Furthermore, Ekiti advanced from 31st to 5th place in neonatal mortality rankings among Nigerian states over the same period.
The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani expressed pride in the state’s progress, stating that Ekiti has surpassed its targeted health outcomes for the last four years. Filani, who also serves as the chairman of the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum, highlighted strategic interventions responsible for these achievements, including strong political leadership under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, increased investments in health, and a commitment to accountability and regular performance reviews.
Filani further explained that aggressive partnerships with development organizations, maintained fiscal discipline, and transparent reporting practices were pivotal to the state’s success. These strategies, along with close collaboration among healthcare providers and policymakers, have strengthened Ekiti’s healthcare infrastructure and improved overall health outcomes.
“The NDHS report not only marks a milestone for Ekiti but also serves as a model for other states aiming to improve their healthcare systems,” Filani stated. “Our success underscores the importance of strong governance, partnership and accountability.”
The report’s findings have attracted attention from health experts, who believe Ekiti’s approach could inspire other states in Nigeria to implement similar strategies, thereby uplifting healthcare standards nationwide. Science Nigeria, which received an early release of the NDHS report, noted that Ekiti’s focused health interventions offer a replicable model for enhancing healthcare systems across Nigeria. The achievements in Ekiti reflect the impact of targeted health policies and dedicated resources, suggesting a path forward for sustainable improvements in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. Experts advocate for broader adoption of Ekiti’s successful strategies to achieve lasting health benefits nationwide.
