By Sola Ogundipe

The Federal Government has announced free Cesarean Sections (C-Sections) for Nigerian women who require the procedure.

A C-section, also called a Cesarean delivery, is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions in the pregnant woman’s abdomen and uterus. It is performed when a vaginal delivery isn’t possible or safe, or when the health of the mother or the baby is at risk.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammed Ali Pate who made the announcement in Abuja on Thursday, on day 2 of the Joint Annual Review, JAR, conference, said that no woman should lose her life simply because she can’t afford a C-section.

The development came as the Minister launched the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative, MAMII, a groundbreaking effort by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare aimed at tackling Nigeria’s critical maternal and neonatal mortality rates—among the highest globally.

Through MAMII, it is expected that access to affordable, quality healthcare for mothers and newborns are to be prioritised, focusing on primary health services and community involvement.

A statement on the official X handle of the apex health ministry @Fmohnigeria quoted Pate as saying: “No woman should lose her life simply because she can’t afford a C-section. This initiative is part of the new Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiatives (MAMII) project.

“Nigeria continues to face significant health challenges, with maternal mortality at 512 deaths per 100,000 live births and neonatal mortality at 41 deaths per 1,000 live births.

“The country also has a low uptake of essential health services. MAMII aims to reduce these rates by improving access to quality healthcare, strengthening primary health care (PHC) services, and fostering greater community engagement.”

Pate assured that the government was committed to improving maternal and neonatal health in Nigeria, saying, “Together, we’re building a future where every Nigerian mother and child can thrive.”

Among key partners that made major commitments during the event was the Emir of Shonga, Dr. Haliru Yahaya, who said, “Traditional institutions and communities are at the heart of health reforms. We’re fully in!”

Also speaking, the Chairman , Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum, Oyebanji Filani noted that “MAMII is a marathon, not a sprint! Health commissioners are al in for implementation.”

On his part, the President, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Engr. Bello Lawal expressed confidence about the project. “We’re aligning with the Federal Government to ensure grassroots support. Full steam ahead!”, he stated.

The Country Representative of the World Health Organization, Dr Walter Mulombo said, “If implemented right, this initiative will deliver. We’re here to support every step of the way!”

The Practice Manager, World Bank Africa, Trina Haque, noted that “MAMII is a game-changer! We’re committed to funding and expertise. Let’s close the gaps!”

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in its own view was optimistic, saying, “Exciting progress! We’re dedicated to making maternal and child health a priority.”

C-sections are major surgeries that are recommended when medically necessary. The WHO estimates that around 2.7 percent of births in Nigeria occur through C-Sections. The rate varies by region, with the South-West having the highest rate at 4.7 percent.

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The Zamfara State chapter of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has issued a strike threat at the Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital in Gusau due to the non-implementation of promotion arrears for its members.

In a letter addressed to the State Head of Service, the union called for immediate action regarding the arrears linked to the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) Adjustment approved by the state government in June 2024.

The letter, signed by Chairman Sani Rabi’u and Secretary Aminu Abdullahi, expressed frustration over the lack of government response.

“We wish to inform the state government that to date, we have not seen any action taken by the state government,” they stated.

The union warned that if the October 2024 salaries are disbursed without addressing the four months of outstanding arrears from June to September 2024, they will stage a peaceful protest.

Following the protest, JOHESU plans to issue a two-week ultimatum, after which they may resort to an indefinite strike and a complete shutdown of the hospital.