By The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has stressed the urgent need for essential micronutrients to reduce maternal mortality and improve child health in Nigeria.
UNICEF is advocating for increased investment in Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) to support pregnant women, as malnutrition remains a key driver of poor maternal and child health outcomes.
Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births. Many newborns are also underweight or premature, increasing their risk of complications.
The 2024 National Food Consumption and Micronutrient Survey revealed widespread deficiencies in vital nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin A, and folate among Nigerian pregnant women.
These deficiencies contribute to severe health risks, including anemia, birth defects, and low birth weight, endangering both mothers and babies.
UNICEF is calling on policymakers and healthcare stakeholders to prioritize maternal nutrition and expand access to essential supplements to curb this growing crisis.
