UNICEF Reports 75,000 Maternal Deaths Annually in Nigeria

UNICEF has highlighted a critical maternal health crisis in Nigeria, reporting that one woman dies every seven minutes during childbirth, leading to an annual total of approximately 75,000 maternal deaths, which is nearly 30% of the global total. This alarming statistic was shared during a Safe Motherhood Day event in Damaturu, Yobe State, where UNICEF and the Yobe State government launched the distribution of 3,237 mama kits aimed at supporting pregnant and nursing mothers.

The theme of the event was "Equity in Maternal Health Care: Leaving No Mother Behind." Franci Butichi, the Chief of UNICEF's Maiduguri Field Office, expressed deep concern over these statistics, emphasizing that they represent real lives lost, including women, daughters, parents, and siblings. The mama kits, funded by Canada, contain essential items to reduce infections and complications during childbirth, particularly for women in remote, high-risk areas.

Dr. Moham Lawan Gana, the Yobe State Commissioner for Health, noted that Yobe has provided free maternal and child healthcare for nearly 20 years.