MamaBase Programme Promotes Skilled Delivery in Lagos

The MamaBase Programme, initiated by the Maternal Reproductive Health Collective (MRH Collective), is intensifying efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in Lagos State, Nigeria. The programme encourages pregnant women to seek skilled healthcare services during pregnancy and childbirth.

Atinuk Adenekan, the community maternal health coordinator, explained that the initiative is currently in its second phase, covering 12 local government areas, including Mushin, Ikorodu, and Alimosho. The programme was established in 2007 by Professor Bosed Afolabi, who noted the high rates of maternal and infant deaths in Nigeria.

Adenekan emphasized the importance of antenatal care and warned against relying on outdated childbirth practices. Josephin Taiwo Igoluba, the coordinator for MamaBase in Mushin, highlighted the support provided to vulnerable pregnant women who cannot afford maternal healthcare services, including financial assistance for antenatal registration and medical tests.

The programme also conducts home visits and provides essential items for newborns to ensure safe motherhood.