FG announces free Cesarean sections for poor, vulnerable women, in maternal health initiative
By Kunle Sanni
Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, has announced a new policy offering free cesarean sections (C-sections) to poor and vulnerable women across Nigeria. This policy is a key component of the government’s Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative (MAMII), aimed at addressing one of the highest maternal and neonatal mortality rates globally.
The announcement was made on Thursday in Abuja, at the launch of MAMII during the Joint Annual Review (JAR) of the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) for health. Pate highlighted that the initiative focuses on expanding access to quality healthcare for mothers and newborns, strengthening primary healthcare services, and actively engaging local communities.
“This policy ensures that financially disadvantaged women needing C-sections—whether due to complications or as planned procedures—can access this critical service without cost barriers,” he said.
To bolster the initiative, Pate also announced the recruitment of 120,000 additional health workers to reinforce the primary healthcare system nationwide.
“A pivotal aspect of this policy is the provision of free cesarean sections for eligible poor and vulnerable women, with services available through both public and private facilities accredited by the National Health Insurance Authority,” he explained.
“By eliminating financial obstacles to this life-saving procedure, we are ensuring that no woman in need is denied essential care due to cost.”
Community health workers will play a vital role in implementing this initiative, supporting President Tinubu’s plan to expand healthcare access by mobilizing 120,000 new health workers. These workers will help raise awareness of maternal health services, educate families on the importance of antenatal care, and inform mothers about available support.
Walter Mulombo, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative in Nigeria, praised the initiative and emphasized the need for effective implementation. “If executed well, this initiative will succeed. We’re here to support every step of the way,” he stated.
During the JAR opening on Wednesday, Pate also urged Nigerians to hold the government accountable for improving healthcare quality and access to essential services.
