As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate World Health Day under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” the Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, has called for urgent and sustained action to reduce preventable maternal and child deaths.
Speaking in an interview to mark the occasion, Dr. Akpoveta underscored the critical need for governments and global health institutions to prioritize maternal and newborn health in both policy and practice.
Citing alarming global statistics, he noted that nearly 300,000 women die each year from pregnancy or childbirth-related complications, while over two million babies do not survive their first month of life, with another two million stillborn.
“These tragic outcomes are largely preventable with timely and quality healthcare interventions,” Dr. Akpoveta stated. He stressed the importance of comprehensive maternal care, not just during labor and delivery but throughout pregnancy and postpartum. He also highlighted the need for a well-equipped health system capable of handling obstetric emergencies and providing accessible family planning services.
Reaffirming Delta State’s commitment to reversing these trends, Dr. Akpoveta revealed that under the MORE Agenda, the state government has allocated ₦1.6 billion to support maternal and child health programs. This funding ensures that all pregnant women and children under five, both residents and indigenes, have unrestricted access to quality healthcare services.
He emphasized the Commission’s dedication to building a stronger, more inclusive healthcare system that supports women and families at every stage of life—before, during, and after childbirth.
As World Health Day shines a global spotlight on health equity and wellness, Dr. Akpoveta called on stakeholders at all levels to take decisive, collaborative action to secure healthier beginnings and brighter futures for mothers and children.
