Urgent Call to Action on Maternal Bleeding Risks in Nigeria

On October 5, 2026, during a webinar organized to commemorate World Obstetric Haemorrhage Day, the Society of Obstetric Anaesthetists of Nigeria (SOAN), in collaboration with the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) and the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), urged immediate action to prevent maternal deaths due to excessive bleeding during or after childbirth. The event, convened by Prof. Simeon Olugbade Olateju, President of SOAN and Consultant Anaesthetist at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, and moderated by Dr. Ibrahim Dekah, highlighted that obstetric haemorrhage accounts for 25% of maternal deaths in Nigeria.

Experts emphasized the need for prompt treatment and coordinated emergency care, advocating for regular training of healthcare workers and a multidisciplinary approach. They also encouraged early antenatal care for high-risk pregnancies and called for community support to raise awareness about the dangers of postpartum bleeding.

The stakeholders advocated for universal access to national health insurance and improved funding for maternal healthcare facilities.