The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, has shed light on the Federal Government’s initiatives to support women facing complications during pregnancy, including the provision of free cesarean sections. Speaking as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, the Minister emphasized that ensuring the health and wellbeing of Nigerians is a central priority in President Bola Tinubu’s vision for the country.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Pate stated that under the President’s administration, there is a strong commitment to reducing maternal mortality rates, particularly those arising from obstetric complications. He explained that the President is determined to ensure that no woman dies because she cannot afford necessary medical treatments, such as cesarean sections. The government is prioritizing the health of Nigerian women and working to alleviate financial barriers to essential health services.
“The Federal Government has approved the free treatment of emergency obstetric complications for women in the empaneled facilities, and that includes cesarean sections,” Pate stated. “It’s not only cesarean sections but also excessive bleeding, obstruction, and other complications of pregnancy. If a woman gets to a certified facility, the facility will be reimbursed for the care.”
He further explained that this initiative forms part of the reforms the government is implementing within Nigeria’s health sector, with a special focus on maternal healthcare. The government has mobilized resources and worked alongside the Health Insurance Authority to ensure that empaneled health facilities can be reimbursed for the care they provide. This reimbursement system ensures that the cost of treatment will not be a financial burden on women in need of critical healthcare.
Pate emphasized that the President’s vision is centered on the health and wellbeing of all Nigerians, and this initiative is a critical aspect of that broader agenda. The goal is to provide timely and affordable medical services to women, especially those facing obstetric emergencies.
In addition to cesarean sections, the Minister also highlighted another critical health issue that the government is addressing: vesicovaginal fistula (VVF). VVF is a serious complication of pregnancy and childbirth that causes leakage of urine and often results in severe social stigma for affected women. Pate revealed that the Federal Government is providing free treatment for VVF, covering the cost of necessary surgical repairs.
“Vesicovaginal fistula is a complication of pregnancy and delivery, and at least 10,000 women annually get those complications,” said Pate. “They leak urine, and there is all kinds of stigma attached to them, especially from their families. Many of these women are young, and they often face discouragement and lack of support from their families due to the condition. They also cannot afford the costly surgeries needed for repair.”
The Minister expressed deep concern over the suffering caused by VVF, particularly as many women endure the condition without the chance to receive proper treatment. To address this issue, the Federal Government has made it a priority to ensure that any woman who suffers from VVF can receive the necessary surgical repair, with the cost fully covered by the government.
“Over 2,000 women have already been repaired, and it’s very touching to see them expressing gratitude for the life-changing opportunity they have received,” Pate added.
Furthermore, Pate revealed that the Federal Government has enlisted 154 health facilities across Nigeria for the free treatment of obstetric complications, including cesarean sections. In addition, the government has also identified 18 centers nationwide dedicated to treating women suffering from VVF. These facilities are equipped with highly qualified medical staff and the latest medical equipment, ensuring that women receive the highest standard of care.
The government’s efforts to enhance maternal healthcare reflect President Tinubu’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Nigerians, especially women facing the most severe healthcare challenges. These initiatives are part of a broader drive to make healthcare services more accessible and affordable, with the ultimate aim of reducing maternal and child mortality rates in the country.
Pate concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to providing healthcare services that prioritize the health and safety of Nigerian women, stating that no woman should have to face the risks of childbirth or pregnancy complications alone, especially due to financial constraints.
