Agency Stakeholders in the health sector have hailed the Federal Government’s free Caesarean Section initiative for pregnant women, describing it as a critical move toward reducing preventable maternal deaths. The stakeholders commended the programme while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja. NAN reports that the Federal Government unveiled a nationwide free C-Section initiative aimed at reducing Nigeria’s alarming maternal mortality rates.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, announced the initiative at the three-day Health Sector-Wide Joint Annual Review which ended on Friday. According to him, under the initiative, C-sections and essential maternal care would be provided free of charge to eligible women across the country, targeting areas with the highest maternal deaths.
A maternal and reproductive health advocate, Dr Ejike Oji, emphasised the need for a holistic approach to ensure the programme’s success. “When I conceptualised the Midwifery Service Scheme years ago, I was disheartened by the high maternal mortality rate. “Nearly 80 per cent of women deliver in rural areas where skilled attendants are scarce, making them vulnerable if complications arise.
” Oji said with free C-sections, women could receive timely surgical intervention without financial strain. He stressed that public education and community engagement were essential to reach these women before emergencies occurred. Oji, who is th.