Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate remains among the highest globally, with an alarming 576 deaths per 100,000 live births. This troubling statistic has prompted Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health, to call for immediate action.
During a recent visit to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, Dr. Anas stated, “We must act swiftly to save our women. The current statistics are deeply concerning, and we cannot afford further delay. It is essential to prioritize governance, leadership, and accountability within the health sector to drive substantial progress.”
Dr. Anas stressed the need to bolster primary healthcare services to address this crisis. Ensuring that pregnant women and newborns receive quality care, including routine check-ups, emergency services, and necessary referrals to specialized care, is crucial. Strengthening these services can significantly reduce deaths from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth.
Additionally, Dr. Anas highlighted the importance of enhancing the human resources for health. Addressing the shortage of skilled healthcare workers, particularly in rural and underserved areas, is vital. Increasing the number of healthcare professionals will ensure that women receive timely and adequate care.
Dr. Anas also underscored the necessity of establishing more medical schools and training institutions to expand the healthcare workforce. Investing in education and training programs, as well as initiatives to retain and motivate healthcare workers, will be crucial in this effort.
Moreover, addressing socio-cultural and economic barriers to healthcare access is essential. This includes tackling harmful cultural practices, poverty, and gender inequality, which often hinder women’s access to necessary healthcare services.
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“The state plays a critical role in combating maternal and child mortality,” Dr. Anas said. “We need to decentralize healthcare services, empower states to respond to public health emergencies, and foster partnerships to support healthcare development.”
Dr. Anas praised Governor Zulum for his dedication to healthcare and encouraged ongoing support for initiatives aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality. She emphasized that collective action is necessary to achieve significant progress.
“We cannot tackle this issue alone,” Dr. Anas concluded. “We must collaborate to address the social determinants of health, such as education, poverty, and gender inequality. It is our duty to act now for the well-being of our current and future generations.