By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
The Head of Department of Epidemiology and Community Health of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Prof Shola Abduraheem has called for increased support for maternal and newborn health in Nigeria.
AbdulRaheem made the call on Monday in Ilorin while speaking at the commemoration of the 2025 World Heath Day themed: “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,”.
The theme focuses on maternal and newborn health, in order to prevent deaths and prioritise women’s health.
He explained that the theme is apt and significant as it emphasizes the importance of taking care of mothers and newborn children for a healthy nation.
“The day is significant in the sense that we need to appreciate what women do and the roles they contribute in making healthy family,” he said.
He advised the nation on the need to take care of mothers and newborn as much as possible, saying that there is need to improve the health indices of mother and child in Nigeria.
Also speaking, Prof Hadijat Raji, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) said when women are supported, they deliver healthy babies.
“This ensures that the baby reaches its full potential. It is important that the woman is healthy before embarking on pregnancy, this increases higher chances of healthy pregnancy and the survival of the new born,” she said.
In her presentation, Dr Bilqis Alatishe-Muhammad, Hospital Consultant, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health of UITH observed that factors that increase maternal deaths includes anemia, lack of healthcare facilities, and transportation.
Her presentation was entitled: “Unveiling the Patterns: A Deep Dive into Maternal and Child Health Dynamics in Kwara”.
Alatishe-Muhammad also She listed other factors to include, post partum haemorrhage, hypertension and lack of skilled personnel among others.
She therefore called on the government to improve funding on maternal and child health care and also ensure access to healthcare for women.
