This, the group said was responsible for the country’s infant mortality rate which stands at 69 deaths per 1,000 live births and rises to 128 deaths per 1,000 live births for children under the age of five among health challenges being faced by women and children in Nigeria.
Speaking during the fundraising for the 200-bed Green Smart Hospital for Women and Children proposed by the group, its National President, Nana Gambo, said the statistics on health conditions amongst women and children in Nigeria are worrisome, adding that there was a need for urgent intervention.
She said, “Although Nigeria represents 2.4 per cent of the world population, it contributes 10 per cent to global deaths for pregnant mothers, representing a maternal mortality rate of 576 deaths per 100,000 live births, which is the fourth highest rate in the world. The report equally reveals that about 262,000 babies die at birth in Nigeria annually, being the second highest figure in the world.
“Currently, infant mortality stands at 69 deaths per 1,000 live births and rises to 128 deaths per 1,000 live births for children under the age of 5. These statistics illustrate health conditions amongst women and children in Nigeria.
“Ladies and gentlemen, gleaning from the UNICEF statistics enumerated, it becomes clear that medical requirements of women and children are inadequate. This is not far-fetched considering that, medical institutions and facilities are inadequate to address the medical challenges of over 200 million Nigerians.
“As of today, it is estimated that Nigeria has about 33,000 general hospitals, 59 teaching hospitals and federal medical centres as well as
about 20,200 primary health centres, while mother and child hospitals are less than 10. This is insignificant when compared to millions of women and children who desire quality medical attention to address various health challenges ”
Gambo said although the government was doing what it could, she added that it required additional collaboration and partnership to meet the health care needs of women and children.
Speaking on the smart hospital, Gambo said the project, when completed, would enable virtual telehealth options for engagement of international and local health practitioners remotely which would reduce the delay in accessing health care facilities in urban areas.
She added that the project is estimated to cost N15 billion and is expected to be commissioned for use by the second quarter of 2023.
