By The Kano State Government has pledged to completely eliminate maternal mortality as part of its broader effort to improve the healthcare system. Rather than merely reducing the numbers, the state aims for a total overhaul of maternal healthcare services.
Speaking at the Partners Coordination Forum (PCF) meeting in Kano, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Yusuf, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to this goal. He noted that significant renovations have been carried out in healthcare facilities across the state to enhance maternal and neonatal care.
According to the Information Officer of the Ministry of Health, Ibrahim Abdullahi, the Commissioner highlighted a major challenge: over 70% of women in Kano still prefer home births assisted by traditional birth attendants instead of seeking hospital care during delivery.
Dr. Yusuf expressed concern over this trend, stating that many maternal deaths could be prevented if more women had access to skilled healthcare professionals and modern medical facilities. He stressed that the government is focused on changing this narrative by making hospitals more accessible and improving public trust in healthcare services.
As part of the initiative, the state government plans to intensify awareness campaigns to educate women on the risks of home deliveries and the benefits of seeking professional medical assistance. It also aims to increase the number of well-equipped maternal care centers in both urban and rural areas.
With these efforts, Kano hopes to set a new standard in maternal health, ensuring that no woman dies due to preventable childbirth complications.
