ASHENEWS reports that Sokoto State will be among the beneficiaries to receive special attention on reducing maternal and newborn deaths under the Accelerating Reduction of Maternal Newborn Deaths project of the federal government.
The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Health, Salma Ibrahim Anas made this disclosure to the Sokoto state Governor, Ahmed Aliyu during her meeting with him to discuss the project.
Anas emphasized the importance of a strong political commitment to reducing maternal and newborn mortality rates in Sokoto State and urged the State Government to implement customized solutions aimed at improving maternal and newborn health outcomes sustainably.
She reiterated President Tinubu’s dedication to enhancing healthcare access in Nigeria through the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative which seeks to ensure that no one is left behind highlighting Sokoto’s role as a leader and advocate in addressing the root causes of high maternal and newborn mortality rates.
Citing data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2018 and Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2021, Anas underscored the preventable nature of most maternal and newborn deaths while emphasising the project’s potential to deliver tangible results quickly.
She explained that the project would benefit individuals, families, and communities, and bolster political achievements.
According to her, the project’s approach involves leveraging local expertise and cultural contexts to develop sustainable solutions tailored to Sokoto State’s needs.
Anas further emphasized the importance of a two-pronged strategy focusing on state-led initiatives and homegrown solutions to achieve lasting health outcomes.
