Speakers at a Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative workshop in Lokoja, the kogi state capital have renewed the call for a united front across all sectors to tackle the rising cases of maternal and infant deaths in Nigeria.
They also suggested enhanced funding, a more robust data infrastructure, cross-sector partnerships, and intensified initiatives to combat malnutrition, often labeled as a hidden driver of child mortality.
The workshop focused on strengthening interventions in vulnerable communities across Kogi State.
A report by the World Health Organization shows that Nigeria has one of the world’s highest maternal and newborn mortality rates, with 1,047 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births and 35 neonatal deaths per 1,000 live births.
MUST READ: FG, Cross River Train Health Workers to Strengthen Fight Against Obstetric Fistula
Ways to change the narrative dominated discussions at the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative workshop, with emphasis on addressing preventable maternal and infant deaths.
Stakeholders noted that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s health sector renewal plan, which aims to reduce maternal mortality by 30% and increase facility-based deliveries by 60% by 2030.
At the forefront of priorities is the urgent demand for enhanced funding, more robust data infrastructure, cross-sector partnerships, and intensified initiatives to combat malnutrition often labeled as a hidden driver of child mortality.
Officials and collaborators agree that the project will play a vital role in promoting secure maternal and child health throughout various localities in Kogi State.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
