At WBFA, we are committed to ensuring better health outcomes for mothers and newborns. On the 18th and 19th March 2025, the WBFA Abuja team joined our founder and president, H.E Toyin Saraki in a two-day workshop on maternal health, organized by the Global Activators Network on Maternal Health in partnership with the World Economic Forum and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. The workshop, championed by Ferring Safe Birth in Nigeria, brought together key stakeholders to develop a roadmap for stronger public-private-philanthropic partnerships to tackle maternal health challenges in Nigeria.
The Maternal Health Landscape in Nigeria
Nigeria accounts for about 10% of global maternal deaths, with an estimated 40,000 women dying each year due to complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. The leading causes include severe bleeding, high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia and eclampsia), unsafe abortions, and obstructed labor. These figures highlight the urgent need for effective interventions to save more lives.
Key Discussions and Takeaways
The workshop focused on advancing the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiatives (MAMII) project, a program designed to improve maternal health outcomes. Discussions centered around:
- • Strengthening the Health System – Identifying ways to ensure quality maternal healthcare services are accessible to all.
- • Maternal Health Trends – Reviewing data to spot gaps and opportunities for improvement.
- • Access to Maternal Health Supplies – Assessing the affordability and availability of essential medical supplies.
- • Technology in Maternal Care – Exploring innovations like the Safe Delivery app to enhance care for mothers and newborns.
Key Areas for Action
Several important themes emerged from the discussions:
- • Improving Policy Implementation – While policies exist, stronger execution and case management are needed.
- • Encouraging Early Antenatal Care – Registering early for antenatal care can help detect and manage complications sooner.
- • Leveraging Digital Innovations – Tools like the Safe Delivery app can provide real-time guidance to healthcare workers and mothers.
The Way Forward
The workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration across sectors to improve maternal health in Nigeria. Embracing technology, strengthening policies, and expanding healthcare access will help create a future where every mother receives the quality care she deserves. WBFA is committed to being part of the solution, advocating for better maternal healthcare, and supporting initiatives that save lives.
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