Special Adviser to the President on Health, Dr Salma Anas, has called the Sokoto State government to implement homegrown solutions for sustainable maternal and newborn health outcomes.
Maternal health is a critical concern in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The high maternal mortality rates underscore the need for urgent action to improve outcomes for both mothers and newborns.
Speaking at a briefing in Abuja on Saturday, she emphasized the need for political commitment to accelerate the reduction of maternal and newborn deaths in the state.
The briefing highlighted findings from the NDHS 2018 and MICS 2021, revealing preventable causes behind a majority of maternal and newborn deaths.
“We call on Sokoto to lead as the Chief Advocate and Champion for the State and explore actions of key drivers and social determinants associated with high maternal and newborn deaths,” she stated.
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Highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to healthcare delivery and Universal Health Coverage, she underscored the importance of prioritizing maternal health.
She also noted Sokoto’s selection to focus on accelerating the reduction of maternal and newborn deaths, stressing the urgency of the initiative.
She advocated for a two-pronged approach, leveraging both state-led and homegrown solutions tailored to local contexts and social-cultural determinants.
She urged Sokoto State to commit to reducing maternal and newborn mortality, emphasizing the importance of the government’s leadership and community involvement in achieving the goal.
Maternal health refers to the well-being of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. It encompasses physical, mental, and social aspects, aiming for a positive experience for both women and their babies. Despite progress, approximately 287,000 women lost their lives during or after pregnancy and childbirth in 20201. These deaths are often preventable.
The most common direct causes of maternal injury and death include excessive blood loss, Infection High blood pressure, Unsafe abortion, and Obstructed labour.
