Private Sector Key to Reducing Maternal Deaths in Nigeria — Stakeholders

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s health sector have called for stronger collaboration between the government, private sector, and development organisations to improve maternal healthcare, expand healthcare financing, and promote digital health innovations aimed at reducing preventable maternal deaths.

The appeal was made during the National Policy Dialogue on “Institutionalising Health Financing and Digital Health Innovations in Nigeria: Maternal Health Reforms – A Case for Private Sector Integration,” organised by the Accountability Commitment for Innovative Optimism and Excellence (ACIOE) Foundation in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

MSD for Mothers Country Lead, Iyadunni Olubode, said achieving Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria requires active cooperation among government agencies, private healthcare providers, and development partners.

She noted that each sector brings unique strengths, including regulation, innovation, investment, and community outreach.

Olubode urged stakeholders to move beyond discussions and develop practical recommendations capable of improving maternal health outcomes nationwide.

She also expressed concern over Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rate and called for urgent reforms.

The Director of ACIOE Foundation, Olukunle Daramola, said sustainable maternal health reforms depend on innovative financing, digital transformation, and stronger public-private partnerships.

He noted that private healthcare providers already deliver a significant share of healthcare services in Nigeria and should be fully integrated into health financing reforms.

Nigeria continues to face one of the world’s highest maternal mortality burdens, with many deaths linked to preventable complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Although the Federal Government has introduced reforms such as expanded health insurance coverage and digital health initiatives, stakeholders maintain that greater private sector participation and innovative financing are essential to achieving lasting improvements in maternal and newborn healthcare.

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