FCT Launches Taskforce to Combat Maternal Mortality

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration inaugurated a taskforce aimed at reducing maternal mortality in Abuja under the Maternal and Neonatal Mortal Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII). This federal healthcare program targets 172 high-burden Local Government Areas across 33 states, which account for approximately 55% of maternal deaths in Nigeria.

The initiative aims to increase health facility utilization and skilled birth attendance by at least 60%, with a goal of achieving a 30% reduction in maternal mortality nationwide. During the inauguration, Dr. Dalopo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for FCT Health and Environment Services, stressed the importance of action and the ongoing commitment to eliminate maternal mortality.

Dr. Dayo Adeyanju, National Coordinator of MAMII, reported a 17% decrease in maternal mortality within two years of the program's implementation. He highlighted that many pregnant women in rural areas still prefer traditional birth attendants due to sociocultural barriers, which contributes to high maternal mortality rates.