Gov. Mutfwang launches initiative to tackle maternal mortality in Plateau

From Tongnaan Bawa Jos

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, has launched a strategic initiative aimed at
reducing maternal and newborn mortality in Plateau State.

The Maternal and Newborn Mortality
Innovative Initiative (MAMIl) of the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH), in collaboration Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) Coordinating Office, aims to showcase strategic approaches and interventions introduced to address the persistent challenges of maternal and newborn mortality in Nigeria.

Represented by his deputy, Ngo Josephine Piyo, the governor said that the launch of MAMIl in Plateau State is not just a policy milestone but a beacon of hope for countless mothers and newborns across communities in the state.

“We are truly honoured to be among the beneficiaries of this visionary initiative, for too long, maternal and newborn mortality has been a silent crisis affecting families, communities, and our future.

“Every mother lost during childbirth is a family torn apart, every newborn death is a story of potential unfulfilled.

“But today, with the activation of MAMII, we take a bold step toward changing this narrative,” he said.

He commended the Ministry for not only recognizing the urgency of the situation but also for responding with innovation, compassion, and a deep understanding of what women and children truly need.

He reiterated the commitment of his administration to support the implementation of this initiative by working with healthcare providers, traditional leaders, community groups, and civil society to ensure that MAMll succeeds, not just in design but in impact.

He urged women to take full advantage of the services that have been provided to build a Plateau where no woman dies giving life, and no child dies before their first smile.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Health in the State, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, emphasised the government’s unwavering commitment to improving maternal and newborn survival rates in the state, noting that the initiative would take a holistic approach, addressing infrastructure deficits, gaps in human resources, and the integration of a new framework to ensure safer pregnancy and childbirth experiences.

The Chairman, Jos East Local Government Area, Hon. Markus Nyam, noted that Jos East has the highest number of women/infant deaths in the state, however added that modalities have been put in place to reduce the number by providing improved and accessible health services for women.

Traditional leaders, community leaders, relevant stakeholders, and the women pledged to ensure that the initiative is utilised to ensure that Plateau goes beyond the national average on maternal and newborn deaths.