To curb maternal deaths, Lagos opens advanced care units In Ifako-Ijaiye, Mushin

By Folashade Olorunfemi

In a bid to transform intensive care unit and reduce preventable deaths during childbirth, the Lagos State Government has commissioned two Advanced Smart Modular High Dependency Units (ASMOHDU) at Ifako-Ijaiye and Mushin General Hospitals.

Speaking at the official unveiling event of the ASMOHDUs held at the General Hospital Ifako-Ijaiye, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, stressed that the concept emerged in response to the state’s maternal and child mortality rates, adding “The T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda emphasizes access, affordability, and quality — three pillars that define our mission. These HDUs represent that vision in action: ensuring every Lagosian has access to timely, life-saving care”.

She added that the Smart Modular HDU model integrates technology with human care, stating, “It’s not just a room filled with machines; it’s a smart, responsive environment where every second counts. Mr. Governor’s vision is about saving lives, whether of mothers, newborns, or accident victims,” while calling for sustained compassion and professionalism among healthcare workers.

In the same vein, The Lagos State Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, remarked that many maternal deaths in Lagos occur among emergency referrals from other facilities, noting “That’s why these HDUs are essential; we must offer care superior to what patients had access to before being referred. That’s how we save lives”.

He also highlighted ongoing reforms such as digital transformation in blood services and federal programs like MAMMI and CEmOC, which align with Lagos’ maternal health strategy.

“Our goal is simple: no woman should die giving birth in Lagos. Behind every number is a family torn apart. Even one preventable death is one too many”, he added.