WORLD HEALTH DAY 2025: TIME TO FIX MATERNAL AND NEWBORN HEALTH IN NIGERIA
Every year, April 7 marks World Health Day, shining a light on key health issues. This time, WHO’s campaign ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’ is all about saving mothers and babies.
The goal is to end preventable deaths and ensure women stay healthy beyond childbirth.
Nigeria’s Reality: A Tough Battle
Nigeria has one of the highest maternal and newborn death rates worldwide. About 512 women die per 100,000 births, and 35 newborns die per 1,000 births. Many women can’t access quality care, leading to needless deaths.
Why Are Mothers and Babies Dying?
- Poor Healthcare Access: Rural areas lack hospitals, skilled birth attendants, and basic medical supplies.
- High Cost of Care: Many women can’t afford antenatal and postnatal care.
- Cultural Beliefs: Some still prefer traditional birth attendants, increasing risks.
- Malnutrition & Lack of Awareness: Poor diet and little knowledge about pregnancy care worsen outcomes.
- Weak Government Support: Policies exist, but poor funding and execution slow progress.
How This Campaign Can Help Nigeria
- Better healthcare facilities and skilled personnel.
- Affordable maternity care for all women.
- Stronger government action and funding.
- Public awareness on safe childbirth and post-natal care.
What’s Next? Time for Action!
Nigeria must act fast. Government, NGOs, and communities must come together to prioritize maternal and newborn health. More hospitals, trained birth attendants, and better education will save lives.
World Health Day 2025 is a reminder that mothers and babies deserve better. The time for change is now.