The Federal Government has introduced free treatment for pregnant women facing complications, including cesarean sections, as part of efforts to reduce maternal mortality in Nigeria.
Professor Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, announced this initiative on Friday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
He emphasized that the program aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving healthcare and ensuring no woman dies due to financial constraints.
“Emergency obstetric complications, including cesarean sections, will now be treated for free in certified health facilities,” Pate stated.
The initiative also covers other critical pregnancy-related emergencies such as excessive bleeding and obstructed labor.
The minister explained that empanelled facilities providing these services will be reimbursed to sustain the program.
“The President is clear that the health and wellbeing of Nigerians are central to his vision. This initiative removes financial barriers and ensures women receive life-saving care without worrying about costs,” he added.
As part of ongoing health sector reforms, the Federal Government is collaborating with the Health Insurance Authority to mobilize resources for timely reimbursements to participating healthcare centers.
Earlier this year, the Federal Government disbursed N87 million to support 2,819 women under the Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) program.
According to data from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the CEmONC initiative covers treatment costs for the five leading causes of maternal mortality in Nigeria:
- Hemorrhage (excessive bleeding)
- Preeclampsia (pregnancy-induced high blood pressure)
- Sepsis (severe infections)
- Post-abortion complications
- Obstructed labor
This initiative is part of the Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative, aimed at significantly lowering maternal and newborn deaths across the country.
With this intervention, the government hopes to improve maternal healthcare access and prevent avoidable deaths, reinforcing its commitment to public health and social welfare.
