Editor
By Fatima Saka
In an efforts to reduce the maternal mortality across the country, the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Pate, has announced that cesarean sections will now be provided free of charge for Nigerian women who need them but cannot afford the procedure.
This announcement was shared through the official X handle of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on Thursday.
In a significant move, Coordinating Minister @muhammadpate declared that cesarean sections for all Nigerian women who require them will now be free.
He stressed, ‘No woman should lose her life simply because she can’t afford a C-section.’”
This initiative coincides with the launch of the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative (MAMII), spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. MAMII is designed to address Nigeria’s critical maternal and neonatal mortality rates, which are among the highest in the world. The initiative aims to enhance access to quality, affordable healthcare for mothers and newborns, emphasizing primary health services and community involvement.
Prof. Pate, echoing the ministry’s announcement on his personal X handle, stated, “Aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII), we are proud to unveil the Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII). This is a transformative commitment to reducing maternal and newborn mortality nationwide.”
Prof. Pate elaborated that the goal of the Joint Annual Health Review (JAR) was to assess the healthcare system comprehensively, identify challenges, and implement sustainable solutions to relieve both physical and financial burdens on Nigerians.
A key aspect of MAMII is offering free cesarean sections to vulnerable women who meet specific criteria. These services will be provided through both public and private facilities affiliated with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). “By removing financial barriers to this life-saving procedure, we ensure no woman is denied care due to cost. Maternal mortality remains unacceptably high, with 172 local governments accounting for over 50% of maternal deaths,” Pate emphasized.
He further explained that MAMII will prioritize high-burden areas to focus resources where they are needed most. The NHIA, in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and State Health Insurance Agencies (SHIAs), will manage reimbursements to ensure sustainable service delivery.
“Community health workers are vital to this mission,” Pate noted, referring to President Tinubu’s initiative to recruit 120,000 additional health workers to bolster primary care nationwide. “These workers are crucial in creating awareness for maternal care, educating families on antenatal care, and ensuring mothers know about available services,” he added.
The minister highlighted that in rural and underserved regions, where accessing healthcare can be challenging, community health workers act as essential liaisons between families and healthcare systems, delivering life-saving information and support directly to homes.
Prof. Pate also revealed that the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) has been revitalized to provide timely emergency transport, bridging critical gaps in maternal and newborn care.
“Our progress and today’s announcement would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our development partners. Their resources, expertise, and alignment with Nigeria’s health priorities have been crucial, showcasing a shared commitment to health equity and the well-being of every Nigerian,” he said.
Pate concluded by calling on state governors, healthcare leaders, community members, and health workers to support and drive the success of this initiative.
“The Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative is a bold response to Nigeria’s maternal and newborn health challenges. Through expanded primary and emergency care and by removing financial barriers, we are building a healthcare system that is truly accessible, affordable, and effective for all Nigerians. Together, we are ensuring that no mother or child is left behind,” he stated.
