The Federal Government has chosen Rivers State to launch a pilot program focused on reducing maternal, under-five, and newborn mortality rates. FG targets infant mortality through this initiative, led by the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS). The program will use the Basic Health Care Provision Fund to provide rural emergency services and maternal transport.
According to Dr. Emuren Doubra, Head of Operations at NEMSAS, the program is a top priority for Professor Ali Pate, Minister of Health and Social Welfare. Pate stressed the need to address healthcare gaps for pregnant women, infants, and young children, given the importance of early medical intervention.
Bridging Gaps in Emergency Healthcare
Dr. Doubra emphasized that emergency medical services have long been a missing link in Nigeria’s healthcare system. The lack of quick transport to medical facilities has contributed to unnecessary delays in treatment. The pilot program in Rivers aims to close that gap by offering timely care for mothers and children during emergencies.
Key objectives include reducing maternal mortality, improving newborn care, providing emergency medical services for pregnant women, and ensuring under-five children receive timely treatment. The program also emphasizes transportation support for newborns needing urgent medical care.
Collaboration Across Sectors
Dr. Doubra noted that the success of this initiative depends on collaboration between healthcare and government sectors. NEMSAS will partner with the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to streamline emergency transportation. Stakeholders, including the Rivers State Ministry of Health and Primary Health Care Development Agency, are also engaged to foster effective implementation.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state’s Commissioner of Health, Dr. Chidinma Oreh, have been praised for their commitment to maternal healthcare. Dr. Doubra assured that resources will be allocated for awareness campaigns, training sessions, and stakeholder meetings to ensure the smooth rollout of the program.
State-Level Support for Maternal and Child Health
Representing the Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr. Ojum Sylvanus explained that efforts are underway in all 23 local government areas to transport pregnant women and newborns to hospitals at no cost. This will be accomplished through the Rural Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (REMSAS).
Port Harcourt Mayor Ezebunwo Echemati, who also serves as Chairman of ALGON, highlighted the program’s value. He noted that providing swift access to medical care has already reduced deaths and committed to partnering with NEMSAS and the Federal Government for continued success.
Conclusion
With FG targeting infant mortality through this pilot program, Nigeria takes an important step toward improving maternal and child health. The focus on emergency services and collaboration reflects a strategic approach to reduce mortality rates. For more insights and resources on healthcare strategies, visit genderpedia.ng/shop to explore relevant documents.
