Kano State has introduced free caesarean section (CS) services for women facing pregnancy complications as part of efforts to reduce the high maternal mortality rate.
Dr. Abubakar Labaran, the State Commissioner for Health, made the announcement during the reception of the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII) workshop report.
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The workshop, which focused on strategies to reduce maternal deaths across the country, identified Kano as the most affected state, with 18 out of 172 priority local government areas having the highest maternal mortality rates.
Dr. Labaran emphasized that 70% of women in Kano give birth outside hospitals, contributing to the state’s alarming maternal mortality statistics.
Dr. Labaran stressed the importance of pregnant women seeking proper healthcare services and assured the public that the government is committed to improving facilities to meet universal health coverage standards. He also praised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s ongoing efforts, including the resumption of free maternity services and the distribution of newborn welcome packages each month.
To address the challenges facing maternal health, the state has introduced free delivery kits alongside the free caesarean section services. However, Dr. Labaran acknowledged persistent gaps in zero-dose immunization and the high burden of diphtheria as significant concerns.
For long-term solutions, the commissioner called for collaboration with relevant ministries and agencies to improve access to healthcare by upgrading roads to health facilities, ensuring that pregnant women can easily reach hospitals.
The health ministry is also committed to studying and implementing the recommendations from the MAMII workshop with support from development partners.
