The Federal government has officially launched the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative (MAMII) in Nasarawa State,to address the increasing rates of maternal and child deaths in high-risk communities.
Mr Omoruyi Iyahen, a representative of the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) team, Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, explained that the MAMII project first introduced in November 2024 is designed to curb rising maternal and neonatal mortality across Nigerian communities.
He stated that Nasarawa State is among 17 states selected for the initiative’s implementation.
“This was because Nasarawa and Keffi Local Government Areas are identified as the highest-burden locations for maternal and neonatal mortality.”
The MAMII initiative adopts a Sector-Wide Approach, uniting five Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as relevant professional health bodies, under a coordinated strategy and single budget framework to improve efficiency and impact.
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Stakeholders at the event stressed the need for increased investment in health infrastructure, capacity building, and public sensitisation to combat the persistent maternal and neonatal death rates in the state.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Medical Director of the Federal University of Lafia Teaching Hospital, Dr Ikrama Hassan, described the launch as a landmark achievement in maternal health:
“I’m happy that this program has finally been launched in Nassarawa State.
“It’s a very good program that the federal government has introduced with the essence to reduce the maternal mortality rate of Nigeria.”
HajiyaFatima Aziba, Health Secretary of Nasarawa Local Government Area, highlighted the importance of continuous training and support for healthcare workers, especially in rural areas, to improve their ability to identify and assist pregnant women.
Pregnant women present at the event, including Hajiya Rabi Audu, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a lifeline for their wellbeing and that of their unborn children.
The Permanent Secretary, Dr John Damina, representing the State Commissioner for Health, reaffirmed the state government’s full commitment to ensuring the success of the project.
Key highlights of the launch included the inauguration of the MAMII Implementation Task Force, the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, and financial support to pregnant women.
