Safe Motherhood Day: Nigeria enacts fresh policies to tackle maternal, child mortality

The Federal Ministry of Health has launched a six policy documents that is geared towards tackling maternal and child mortality in the country.

The document was launched by the Ministry of Health during the commemoration of this year’s Safe Motherhood Day, held on Monday in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

The documents consists of the Safe motherhood strategy, postpartum hemorrhage guidelines, pre-eclampsia and eclampsia guidelines, essential gynaecological skills (facilitator and participant manual), RMNCAEH quality of care strategy, national training manuals for doctors and nurses on the management of obstetric fistula.

Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate who is Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, said the documents represent the government’s promise to not just respond to emergencies, but to build a resilient, people-centered health system that can anticipate and prevent them.

He explained that the Safe Motherhood Strategy (2024–2028) serves as a roadmap for coordinated, multi-level interventions that is aimed at safeguarding the lives of mothers.

He also added that the document includes the national quantification of maternal health commodities for the same period.

He therefore acknowledged the guidelines for the management of Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) which is to standardise lifesaving practices nationwide, he said the Preeclampsia and Eclampsia guidelines are targeted strategies for timely detection and effective management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy.

Speaking for a way forward, he called on all stakeholders; governors, traditional rulers, healthcare workers, community leaders, development partners, and private sector allies to join hands with the government in making safe motherhood a reality in every village, every ward, and every home.

“Let us ensure that no woman dies while giving life. Let us ensure that every child born in Nigeria takes their first breath in safety and with hope.” He said.

Daju Kachollom the Permanent secretary of the ministry who was represented by Dr Binyere Ukaire, Director Family Health, said the ministry has prioritised maternal and newborn health as a cornerstone of the national health agenda.

She noted that the commitment is evident in the policies championed by the ministry, the strategic partnerships it has fostered, and the interventions it continues to scale up.