The Nigerian Federal Government has introduced a policy to offer free cesarean sections to vulnerable women across the country. This initiative, spearheaded by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, is part of a larger Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiatives (MAMII) project aimed at lowering Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate, which is among the highest in the world.
The policy was announced at the recent Joint Annual Review of the health sector, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing maternal healthcare and access to life-saving medical services.
With maternal mortality rates at around 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, Nigeria faces significant challenges in maternal and neonatal health. Many women lack access to essential medical care due to financial, cultural, and geographical barriers, which contribute to the high death rate.
The free cesarean section initiative targets poor and vulnerable women who are unable to afford the costs associated with these critical surgeries. Women eligible for the program can receive C-sections without charge at both public and certain private hospitals partnered with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).
In addition to making surgeries accessible, MAMII aims to address several underlying factors contributing to poor maternal health outcomes. The initiative will focus on improving primary healthcare services, particularly in underserved and rural areas where maternal health resources are often limited.
The government has also announced plans to employ an additional 120,000 health workers, including community health workers, who will play a crucial role in generating demand for maternal healthcare, educating communities, and supporting women throughout pregnancy and delivery. These workers will also help bridge the gap in awareness, as some women remain uninformed about the healthcare services available to them.
The initiative has gained support from international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), whose representatives stressed the importance of successful implementation. WHO Country Representative Walter Mulombo applauded the initiative, stating that no woman should face life-threatening situations due to a lack of funds for necessary medical procedures. WHO pledged to assist Nigeria in rolling out this initiative effectively to ensure it makes a tangible difference in maternal healthcare outcomes.
Prof. Pate emphasized that the policy not only addresses immediate healthcare needs but also aims to foster sustainable improvements across Nigeria’s healthcare system. By focusing on maternal health and providing financial protection, the government is striving to create a more inclusive and accessible health system that ensures quality care for all Nigerians. This initiative is part of a broader health sector reform agenda that aims to hold government bodies accountable and to involve communities in healthcare decisions.
The MAMII initiative represents a substantial step toward tackling the high maternal mortality rates in Nigeria and could mark the beginning of significant improvements in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly for its most vulnerable populations. The initiative highlights the government’s approach to reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates, aiming to create lasting improvements in healthcare accessibility and quality across Nigeria.
