Nigeria Targets Maternal Mortality Reduction by 2025

Nigeria's Nation Development Plan (2021-2025) aims to reduce maternal mortality from 512 to 300 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2025, addressing malnutrition among women of reproductive age. The initiative aligns with Nigeria's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to prevent maternal deaths, targeting a reduction to 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.

The 2023 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey indicates that Nigeria has the second-highest maternal mortality rate globally, following India. Additionally, UNICEF and the World Bank estimate that 32-34% of Nigerian children under five are stunted, with approximately 14 million affected.

The Civil Society Scale Nutrition Nigeria coalition collaborates with civil society groups to strengthen advocacy and accountability in the nutrition sector. Recent efforts in Kaduna State have led to increased access to maternal health services, with a notable rise in women utilizing services and requesting micronutrient supplements.

The initiative aims to improve nutrition outcomes through better coordination and funding at the state level.