WHO seeks urgent action to reduce maternal, neonatal mortality in Nigeria

As part of the 2025 World Health Day commemoration, the World Health Organization (WHO) has called for urgent action to reduce the high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality in Nigeria.

Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Country Representative, emphasized the importance of collective efforts to address the alarming statistics and ensure a healthier future for Nigerian communities.

“Nigeria’s maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain unacceptably high, with previous surveys underscoring the urgent need for improvement,” he said.

Mulombo highlighted the challenges in the healthcare system, including inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of skilled healthcare workers, and limited access to quality medical services. He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian government through the development of improved guidelines, strategic frameworks, and capacity-building initiatives for healthcare providers.

He stressed the importance of joint efforts and a renewed sense of urgency to meet the global goal of reducing maternal and neonatal mortality by 2030.

“The WHO is actively engaging with the government, civil society organizations, and local communities to coordinate responses to these pressing health issues,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Shoretire, Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, highlighted the significance of “healthy beginnings” for women and children. He emphasized the need for universal access to antenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and family planning services.

Shoretire noted that the government had initiated the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, built on four key pillars: effective governance, improved population health outcomes through efficient service delivery, strengthening local production of medical supplies, and enhancing health security, especially in response to disease outbreaks and pandemics.

“Nigeria still faces significant healthcare challenges, including a high maternal mortality ratio,” he said.

“However, the government has increased healthcare funding over the past three years and is working to strengthen primary healthcare through enhanced local government autonomy.”

He concluded by calling for continued investment and partnership in the health sector to secure a healthier future for all Nigerians.