The Federal Government has launched a nationwide free cesarean section initiative to address Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rate.
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Pate announced this on Wednesday in Abuja during the Joint Annual Review (JAR), a key platform for advancing the sector-wide approach (SWAp) in Nigeria.
Pate explained that cesarean sections and essential maternal care would be provided free of charge to eligible women across the country, with a focus on areas experiencing high maternal death rates.
He highlighted that the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative will primarily target local government areas with over 50 per cent of maternal deaths, addressing barriers such as lack of awareness, spousal consent, and financial challenges.
“Supported by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the initiative aims to make life-saving procedures like cesarean sections accessible to women in need without cost burdens,” Pate said.
He emphasised the need to address gaps in the healthcare system, adding, “Our objective is to ensure every Nigerian woman has access to safe, skilled maternal care.”
Through partnerships with state health agencies and community health workers, the initiative aims to increase the presence of skilled attendants at primary health centers and educate women on the importance of antenatal care.
“This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s health agenda, providing immediate relief through free procedures while fostering long-term improvements in primary care,” he noted.
He also called for collaborative efforts to sustain these resources, contributing significantly to maternal and child health outcomes.
“It’s about empowering Nigerian women with the healthcare and knowledge they need for safer pregnancies and childbirth,” he added.
Science Nigeria reports that Nigeria has one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates, compounded by limited healthcare access in rural areas and high out-of-pocket expenses.
On the sidelines, Rivers State Health Commissioner, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh told journalists that Pate’s initiative is a significant step toward achieving Nigeria’s maternal health goals and expanding universal healthcare coverage.
Oreh stated that the initiative calls on local communities, healthcare workers and government agencies to support and implement these policies actively.
“Prof. Pate highlighted that saving lives requires consistent community-level engagement and a collective commitment to improving maternal health nationwide,” she said.
The three-day JAR event will set priorities for the next phase of Nigeria’s health sector reforms and explore solutions to healthcare challenges.
