Nigeria Faces Critical Maternal Health Crisis as UNFPA Sounds Warning
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
CALABAR, Nigeria – Nigeria’s persistently high maternal and neonatal deaths demand urgent political commitment, deep socio-cultural reforms, and stronger health systems, the United Nations Population Fund warns, as new national data exposes widening gaps in care.
Speaking at the 66th National Council on Health in Calabar, UNFPA Nigeria’s Technical Specialist for Reproductive and Maternal Health, Lordfred Achu, said progress remains stalled because “women still lack autonomy, health systems remain weak, and skilled personnel are unevenly distributed.”
“We can do far more to challenge persistent sociocultural norms and limited female autonomy so we can accelerate progress in reducing maternal deaths.” Achu said.
Nigeria remains one of the world’s most dangerous places to give birth. The 2025 Nigeria Health Statistics Report shows the country recorded 20,811 maternal, neonatal, and under-five deaths between January and September 2025. Maternal deaths alone reached 1,244 in Q1, 1,232 in Q2, and 1,213 in Q3.
The report lists maternal complications, cardiovascular disease, malaria, cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, sepsis, anaemia, tuberculosis, and neonatal complications as the top causes of maternal deaths. For neonatal and under-five mortality, diarrhoea, pneumonia, malnutrition, meningitis, sepsis, tetanus, and hypoxaemia dominate.
Achu warned that Nigeria records one maternal death every seven minutes, driven by poverty, limited access to health facilities, and harmful cultural practices. “Reducing maternal and neonatal mortality is not just about saving lives. It is about equality and equity,” he said.
He urged Nigeria to enforce girl-child education, empower women to make informed health decisions, and involve men, religious leaders, and community groups in maternal health advocacy. “Integrate maternal health discussions in women’s groups, engage men, and support community dialogue,” he emphasised.
Achu noted that Nigeria, India, Pakistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo account for nearly half of global maternal deaths, underscoring the urgent need for systemic reform.
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