UNICEF Launches Lifeline Initiative to Curb Maternal and Child Mortality in Nigeria
By Auwal Ahmad, Gombe
UNICEF has once again rolled out its biannual Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Week (MNCHW), a flagship initiative to improve child health and reduce maternal and newborn mortality across Nigeria.
The UNICEF Bauchi Field Office Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, who stated this while speaking with journalists on Wednesday, said the program is held twice a year, in May-June and November-December; the campaign underscores the importance of an integrated approach to health, nutrition, education, and child rights.
“This comprehensive initiative addresses critical issues, including immunization catch-up programs, maternal nutrition, and safe childbirth practices.
“A key aspect of the MNCHW is its focus on skilled birth attendance to ensure safer deliveries. For mothers in their final trimester, clean delivery kits are distributed, containing essential items like deworming tablets, micronutrients, and safe delivery supplies to make at-home births more secure when accessing a facility is not possible.
Dr. Rafique said that UNICEF’s efforts span all states, strongly emphasising monitoring and quality assurance through field offices, including the Bauchi Field Office.
She said that over 147,000 Vitamin A supplements have been administered, alongside approximately 50,000 bottles of deworming tablets distributed to children. These interventions aim to enhance child nutrition, prevent infections, and boost overall health outcomes.
Dr. Rafique said UNICEF supports logistics and technical expertise to strengthen the health system.
“Our goal is to reduce maternal, newborn, and child mortality by integrating services that promote safe deliveries, immunisation, and nutritional well-being,” said a UNICEF nutrition specialist, Philomena.
UNICEF Chief said addressing immunisation gaps is a significant feature of MNCHW: its focus on catching up with children who have missed routine vaccinations. This approach ensures that no child is left behind, contributing to nationwide efforts to eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases, such as polio.
She also emphasises birth registration as a fundamental child right, ensuring every newborn has an official identity from the moment they enter the world.
While UNICEF provides financial and technical support, the government and local health authorities play a leading role in implementing the MNCHW. In the Bauchi field and other regions, primary healthcare departments are spearheading these activities, with UNICEF acting as a catalyst.
“This campaign is an opportunity to strengthen health systems while ensuring sustainable service delivery for mothers and children.”
“Despite the program’s success, UNICEF is cautious about incentivising health workers, preferring to focus on their professional commitment and responsibilities.
“Providing incentives beyond transportation costs can compromise the long-term sustainability of healthcare delivery.
“By integrating maternal and child health interventions into a single, cohesive campaign, UNICEF reaffirms its commitment to ensuring every child’s right to health, nutrition, and a safe start in life.
The MNCHW is not just a campaign; it is a lifeline for thousands of families across Nigeria.
