Nigeria faces maternal health crisis amid healthcare failures

Nigeria is facing a severe maternal health crisis, accounting for nearly 40 per cent of global maternal deaths despite representing only 2.9 per cent of the world’s population. Recent data indicates that Nigeria records approximately 75,000 maternal deaths annually, with a mortality ratio of 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births. This figure represents a significant increase from previous years when the country's share of global maternal deaths hovered between 28 and 29 per cent.

A report by Orodata Science examining 1,480 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) across 16 states found that 97 per cent of assessed facilities failed to meet national minimum staffing requirements. In many surveyed states, no facilities met the necessary standards.

Field investigations in the Federal Capital Territory, Plateau, and Kano states reveal that many PHCs lack essential resources, including medical staff, functioning equipment, reliable electricity, and water. Some facilities are reportedly non-functional, forcing women to travel long distances by motorcycle during emergencies to seek care. Shortages of health workers have led to long wait times and a heavy reliance on volunteers to maintain basic services.