Ali Pate, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, says cesarean sections (C-sections) will now be provided free of charge to women across the country.
Pate announced in Abuja on Thursday the launch of the maternal mortality reduction initiative (MAMII) during the ongoing joint annual review (JAR) of the sector wide approach (SWAp) for health.
He said the move is part of the government’s push to tackle Nigeria’s maternal and neonatal mortality rates, which rank among the highest globally.
The initiative aims to improve access to quality healthcare for mothers and newborns, with a particular focus on primary health services and community involvement.
The new policy is designed to ensure that women who need C-sections—either due to complications or as part of planned deliveries—can access the procedure without financial obstacles.
According to Pate, the initiative will prioritise ensuring that essential maternal healthcare services reach even the most underserved communities.
