With Nigeria still ranking among the countries with the highest rates of maternal and infant mortality in the world, the Federal Government has unveiled a major initiative aimed at reversing the tragic trend.
On Monday, in a ceremony held in Enugu State, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, reaffirmed the government’s target of reducing maternal mortality by 20% and under-five mortality by 15% before the year 2027.
The event, which featured the distribution of 10,000 professional kits to midwives, was spearheaded by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as part of her national advocacy for maternal and child health.
“These kits represent more than tools — they symbolize our collective commitment to protect mothers and their babies,” said Salako.
The government’s plan puts midwives at the center of the campaign to reduce mortality. According to the minister, well-equipped and motivated midwives are key to safe deliveries and healthy babies.
“We sincerely appreciate the impactful role that midwives are playing,” he said. “When our women get pregnant, they go through pregnancy in health and deliver healthy babies — because of you.”
He further stated that the government would continue to provide support not only in the form of tools but also through improved welfare and professional development.
The kits distributed include essential tools midwives need to handle deliveries safely, especially in rural or underserved areas where healthcare infrastructure remains weak.
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The urgency of the initiative is underscored by sobering statistics. According to a 2024 World Bank report, Nigeria accounts for 20% of global maternal deaths.
A separate UNICEF report reveals that although Nigeria makes up only 2.4% of the world’s population, it contributes to 10% of the world’s maternal deaths.
The current maternal mortality rate stands at 576 deaths per 100,000 live births — one of the highest globally. Infant mortality is recorded at 69 per 1,000 live births, while under-five mortality stands at a staggering 128 per 1,000.
“Each year, about 262,000 babies die at birth in Nigeria — the second highest national total in the world,” the UNICEF report said.
For health workers like Grace Umeh, a midwife working in a rural clinic outside Enugu, the kits are a long-awaited sign that their sacrifices are not forgotten.
“Sometimes we work with our bare hands,” she said. “But this gives us hope — that we are not alone.”
In closing his address, Dr. Salako urged midwives to use the kits with integrity and purpose, reminding them of the oath they took to protect life.
“These kits are not just equipment — they are a lifeline for the women and children of Nigeria.”