UNICEF Addresses Nigeria's Maternal and Newborn Deaths

UNICEF has indicated that Nigeria plays a significant role in the high rates of maternal and newborn deaths in West Africa, highlighting the urgent need for sustained investment in quality healthcare services to reverse this trend. Dr.

Nuzhat Raffiqu, Chief Field Officer of UNICEF's Bauchi Field Office, made these remarks during the flag-off of the distribution of comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care (CEMONC) equipment. This event was coordinated with the Federal Ministry of Health, represented by Prof.

Muhammad Ali Pate, and supported by Bauchi State Governor Sen. Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.

Dr. Raffiqu praised the collaboration between the federal and state governments to improve maternal and child healthcare.

She noted that reducing maternal and newborn mortality requires quality healthcare services at all levels, emphasizing that every mother and child deserves access to safe childbirth and quality healthcare. UNICEF, with support from Global Affairs Canada, is distributing equipment across local government areas in Bauchi State and has trained nearly 300 primary healthcare workers and 40 secondary healthcare providers in maternal and newborn care.