The Federal Government has introduced a nationwide policy offering free cesarean sections to women as part of its strategy to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.
Announced by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, during the launch of the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative (MAMII) in Abuja, the move aims to tackle Nigeria’s high maternal death rates.
This initiative, launched at the Joint Annual Review (JAR) of the health sector’s Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), focuses on improving maternal healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas.
It seeks to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent women from accessing life-saving procedures, such as C-sections, whether for emergency or planned deliveries.
The government also aims to strengthen primary healthcare services and boost community engagement in maternal health.
Pate emphasized the need for accessible and quality care for mothers and newborns, underlining the administration’s commitment to equitable healthcare delivery.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has pledged its support, aligning with the government’s efforts to ensure effective implementation of the initiative.
