The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed serious concerns about the high rate of home deliveries in Bauchi State, Nigeria, revealing that seven out of 10 deliveries occur outside healthcare facilities. This alarming trend is a major contributor to the state’s high maternal and child mortality rates.
Rafique, the Chief of Field Office at UNICEF Nigeria-Bauchi, made these statements during the 2024 Bauchi State Primary Health Care Annual Retreat in Gombe. She explained that despite efforts from various stakeholders, maternal, child, and newborn mortality rates in Bauchi remain unacceptably high due to limited access to healthcare facilities. Only 30% of deliveries in the state take place in healthcare centers, leaving many women and newborns at risk.
“The risk of a newborn dying is higher at home because there are no healthcare professionals available to manage emergencies,” Rafique noted. She emphasized that public health studies have consistently shown that skilled birth attendants and a well-functioning healthcare system are crucial to reducing under-five mortality and improving newborn care.
Rafique called on the Bauchi State Government to increase funding and resources for primary healthcare services to improve delivery outcomes. She also highlighted the need to prioritize birth registration, hygiene, vaccination, health services, schooling, sanitation, safe water, and nutrition for the state’s children and mothers.
Bauchi State Government’s Commitment to Improving Healthcare
Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Mohammed Jatau, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system. He highlighted the progress made in primary healthcare delivery, noting significant achievements, including the increase in Penta 3 vaccination coverage, which rose from 31% to 58% in the 2023 NDHIS Survey.
Despite progress, Jatau acknowledged that challenges remain, especially in maternal and child health and nutrition. He called for continued efforts and greater support from stakeholders to enhance healthcare services at all levels. “We need more commitment to improving health services across the state,” Jatau said.
The Deputy Governor also commended the support of development partners, including the Federal Government, UNICEF, WHO, and private organizations such as the Aliko Dangote and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundations, for their contributions to improving Bauchi’s healthcare system.
Conclusion: Collective Action Needed for Better Health Outcomes
The ongoing collaboration between government bodies, development partners, and healthcare providers is essential to addressing the healthcare challenges in Bauchi State. Through increased investments in primary healthcare, improved access to skilled birth attendants, and stronger focus on nutrition and sanitation, Bauchi can make significant strides in reducing maternal and child mortality and improving overall health outcomes.
