Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reported significant progress in neonatal healthcare in Rivers State, with 91% of women giving birth with the assistance of skilled birth attendants.
This is a notable improvement compared to the national average, where only 46% of women deliver with the help of doctors, nurses, or midwives.
UNICEF Health Manager, Martin Dohlsten emphasized that the presence or absence of skilled birth attendants during delivery is a critical factor in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates.
Dohlsten also highlighted the challenges contributing to newborn deaths in Nigeria, including unstable electricity, a shortage of skilled birth attendants, weak referral systems, and the absence of clinical guidelines for maternal and newborn care.
Despite these challenges, he emphasized that with the right policies and provision of basic healthcare services, significant progress can be achieved.
Meanwhile, UNICEF Health Specialist in Rivers, Abe Eghe, reported that the state achieved 78% of its measles vaccination coverage target in 2024, with UNICEF providing ongoing support for supplementary immunization efforts and routine vaccination programs.
UNICEF’s support includes ensuring adequate resources, technical assistance, and financial support to improve immunization coverage. Additionally, UNICEF is conducting a catch-up campaign to reach children who missed immunization during the COVID-19 era.
Through community engagement, UNICEF is working to encourage mothers, caregivers, and traditional leaders to improve their uptake of immunization.
