Key speakers from the health sector emphasized the urgent need for collaborative advocacy to improve maternal health outcomes in Nigeria. During a webinar jointly organized by Pathfinder International Nigeria and the Center for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI), participants discussed critical issues affecting maternal health.
Call for Collaborative Action to Reduce Maternal Mortality
Abuja, Nigeria: Key stakeholders in the health sector have renewed calls for concerted efforts to address Nigeria’s persistent maternal mortality challenge. During a webinar organized by Pathfinder International Nigeria and the Center for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, participants emphasized the need for collaborative advocacy to drive sustainable progress in maternal health.
The event brought together key players in the the ongoing project to Strengthen Multi-level Partnerships for Advancing Whealth in Kano and Lagos States.
Pathfinder International Nigeria’s Senior Country Director, Amina Aminu Dorayi, highlighted the importance of accountability in achieving maternal health goals. “We must explore ways to hold stakeholders accountable for their commitments,” she stressed. Dorayi emphasized the need for quality care accessible to all, enabling families and communities to thrive.
Dr. Folashade Oludara, Head of Family Health and Nutrition Directorate, Lagos State Ministry of Health, outlined policies such as six months maternity leave and free antenatal care. However, she acknowledged challenges like overstretched facilities, staff burnout, and financial constraints. She proposed solutions including partner support, health scheme enrollment, and skill upgrades for healthcare workers.
Dr. Imam Wada Bello, Director of Public Health and Disease Control, Kano State Ministry of Health, identified funding gaps and lack of budget transparency as major hurdles. He advocated for community-based monitoring and budget tracking to ensure accountability.
Salisu Yusuf, Public Relations Officer of the Kano State-Led Accountability Mechanism (KanSLAM), underscored the importance of policy reforms, community engagement, and sustainable funding for maternal health.
CCSI’s Executive Director, Mrs. Babafunke Fagbemi, emphasized the center’s role in strategic communication and media advocacy to drive positive change. She highlighted the project’s potential to shape the advocacy agenda and showcase successful initiatives.
By fostering collaboration and addressing key challenges, stakeholders aim to create a lasting impact on maternal health in Nigeria.
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About Us
The Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) is a leading Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) organization with expertise in utilizing evidence from research to implement effective strategies that address barriers preventing designated audiences from adopting recommended behaviors.
Birthed by the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs (JHCCP), Baltimore, USA, and registered in 2001 as a Non-Governmental Organization with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria, CCSI continues to work towards being the center of excellence in strategic communications in Africa.
Driven by values of integrity, passion, care, innovation, and excellence, CCSI focuses on the central role of strategic communication to impact behaviors, build brands, and provide technical leadership in health and social development.