Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
The Federal Government on Monday launched the Ogun State Maternal and Newborn Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative (MAMAII) to tackle rising maternal and newborn deaths through sustainable and innovative interventions.
Speaking at the launch in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized that President Bola Tinubu initiated the scheme to significantly reduce maternal and newborn mortality across Nigeria’s 36 states.
Pate highlighted that the recently approved $1 billion healthcare facility will support this initiative, ensuring improved healthcare services nationwide. He expressed confidence that with collaboration among federal, state, and local governments, as well as key health sector players, MAMAII will achieve its goal of saving lives.
The Minister revealed that the Federal Government is upgrading health facilities in all 774 local government areas, which will serve as referral centers for more hospitals to be integrated under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). These facilities will offer free treatment for emergency obstetric complications, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent women from accessing life-saving care.
He also announced that the FG is prioritizing efforts in 172 high-risk local government areas, which contribute to over 50% of maternal deaths in Nigeria, some of which are in Ogun State.
“His Excellency, the President, launched this initiative last week because it is crucial for the present and future of our country. It is about caring for our mothers and newborns, who will grow into responsible adults contributing to Nigeria’s development,” Pate stated.
“We are focusing on 172 local governments that account for more than half of Nigeria’s maternal mortality. At the same time, 774 health facilities have been identified for upgrades to serve as referral centers, ensuring that more hospitals under NHIS can provide free treatment for emergency obstetric complications, including cesarean sections.”
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Speaking on behalf of Governor Dapo Abiodun, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reducing maternal and child mortality through innovation, collaboration, and data-driven strategies.
She noted that Ogun has significantly strengthened its healthcare system, increasing budgetary allocation to 13% in 2025. The state’s maternal mortality rate stands at 194 per 100,000, compared to over 500 per 100,000 nationally.
“We have enhanced our health financing mechanisms through the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency, particularly the Ibi-Dero Conditional Cash Transfer Program, which supports vulnerable pregnant women in accessing quality maternal care,” Abiodun said.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, commended Governor Abiodun for his support in launching MAMAII, stating that the initiative will make a significant impact in Ota and Ijebu North East, two high-risk areas in the state.
She also highlighted the five-day co-creation workshop designed to train health workers, equipping them with essential skills to improve maternal and newborn care.
“This initiative will go a long way in reducing maternal and newborn mortality in Ogun State, particularly in high-burden areas,” Coker emphasized.