During the ongoing three-day Nigeria Health Sector-Wide Joint Annual Review in Abuja, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, unveiled this initiative.
Professor Pate emphasized that this program represents a significant commitment to decreasing maternal and newborn mortality rates throughout Nigeria.
A tweet from the official X account of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare highlighted, “In a significant development, Coordinating Minister @muhammadpate has announced that Cesarean Sections will now be FREE for all Nigerian women who require them!”
Mr. Pate remarked that no woman should have to risk her life due to the inability to afford a C-section.
The Joint Annual Health Review aims to perform a comprehensive evaluation of Nigeria's healthcare system, pinpointing challenges and executing effective solutions to alleviate the physical and financial strains faced by Nigerians.
Pate highlighted on his X account that a key aspect of this initiative is the offering of complimentary caesarean sections for low-income and vulnerable women who qualify, encompassing services rendered by both public and private facilities accredited by the National Health Insurance Authority.
He said, “By removing financial barriers to this life-saving procedure, we ensure that no woman in need is denied critical care due to cost. Maternal mortality remains unacceptably high, with 172 local governments contributing to over 50 per cent of maternal deaths.
“By focusing resources on these high-burden areas, MAMII will address the greatest areas of need. The NHIA, in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and state health insurance agencies, will manage the reimbursement process, ensuring that providers across both sectors can deliver these essential services sustainably.”
He emphasized the vital contribution of community health workers to this initiative, aligning with the President’s plan to recruit 120,000 more health workers to enhance primary care throughout Nigeria.
He stated that these professionals are key in fostering demand for maternal care services in local communities, raising awareness among families about the significance of antenatal care, and ensuring that mothers are well-informed about the services available to them.
"In rural and underserved areas, where accessing healthcare facilities remains a challenge, community health workers act as vital links between families and the healthcare system, bringing lifesaving information and support to their doorsteps.
“In these same areas, the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System @Fmohnigeria has been revitalised to provide timely transport for emergencies, bridging a key gap in both maternal and newborn care by bringing emergency services closer to those who need them most,” he added.
The minister highlighted that this announcement could not have been achieved without the essential backing of development partners, whose resources, expertise, and alignment with Nigeria's health priorities have played a crucial role.
"Their commitment exemplifies a shared dedication to health equity and the well-being of every Nigerian. We also call on all stakeholders—state governors, healthcare leaders, community members, and health workers—to actively support and drive the success of this initiative.
“The Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative represents an immediate, determined response to Nigeria’s maternal and newborn health challenges. Through demand generation, expanded primary and emergency care, and the removal of financial barriers, we are advancing a healthcare system that is truly accessible, affordable, and effective for all Nigerians.
“Together, we are building a future where no mother or child is left behind in accessing the quality, affordable care they deserve,” he said.