Nigeria’s ambitious effort to curb maternal and newborn deaths has achieved a significant milestone, with over 4,000 pregnant women receiving free caesarean-section deliveries under the National Health Insurance Authority’s Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII).

Launched in 2024 by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the initiative seeks to eliminate financial barriers that often hinder women from accessing critical emergency obstetric care. Under the programme, C-section services are provided at no cost across a growing network of public, private, state-owned and faith-based hospitals empanelled under the National Health Insurance Authority.

Officials say the intervention is part of a broader national strategy to strengthen maternal and newborn healthcare in 172 high-burden local government areas, including upgrading facilities, encouraging early antenatal registration, and improving emergency transport systems.

So far, more than 435 health facilities have been revitalised and equipped to offer comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care. Authorities note that the removal of cost barriers has resulted in a sharp rise in facility-based deliveries, which is already contributing to improved maternal and neonatal outcomes.

However, challenges persist. Some rural areas still lack fully functional emergency care units, and referral systems remain weak in several regions. Health experts stress the need for continued investment, community-level engagement, and stronger surveillance systems to sustain the gains made.

Despite these hurdles, the free C-section programme is being hailed as an encouraging step toward reducing Nigeria’s high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.