Title:
Exploring Universal Maternal Health Coverage in Nigeria: Strategies to Accelerate Maternal Mortality Reduction
Authors:
Adebanjo, Elizabeth Onidunni
Place:
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Publisher:
KIT Institute
Year:
2025
PAGE:
57
Language:
En
Subject:
Maternal Health – Lessons Learned
Keywords:
maternal health, maternal care, maternal and child health, universal health coverage, Nigeria
Abstract:
Introduction: Globally, Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality ratio (MMR) at 993 deaths per 100 000 live births, despite its efforts to reduce MMR. This study identified ways to accelerate MMR reduction by exploring maternal health interventions implemented before and during the SDGs from 2010 to 2024. Methodology: Search for peer-reviewed literature between 2010-2024 was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, VU library, and grey literature sources. Thematic analysis of findings was done using health system performance assessment (HSPA) framework for UHC. Results: From 2010 to 2014, five maternal-specific health programs were identified of which one is ongoing. All five programs increased maternal services utilization; whereas two achieved service coverage, two ensured financial risk protection, two increased human resource, two achieved service quality and the ongoing program strengthens routine maternal services. From 2015 to 2024, basic healthcare provision fund (BHCPF) and vulnerable group fund (VGF) were identified with no peer-reviewed literature on their performance regarding maternal health. Discussion: The gains of the ended programs were not sustained, and no maternal-specific health program was initiated from 2015 to 2024. Some intervention gaps identified in earlier years were addressed but state governments’ commitment, funding, program awareness and engagement of beneficiaries in program design remained inadequate. Conclusion: Based on the study findings, implementing and sustaining maternal-specific programs are recommended to accelerate MMR reduction, and enacting population control measures would sustain gains. Additionally, further research is needed to assess the nationwide impact of BHCPF and VGF on maternal health indicators.
Organization:
KIT Institute/Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT Institute
Country:
Nigeria
Region:
West Africa
Training:
Master of Science in Public Health and Health Equity
Category:
research
Right:
© 2025 Adebanjo
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
UlwmPoDgJk_20251211123213165.pdf