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Benue State is set to address the pressing issue of maternal and neonatal mortality through the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative (MAMII), a health program launched by the Hon. Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare. The initiative aims to reduce mortality rates among women of reproductive age (15-45 years) and newborns and infants up to five years old, targeting a significant impact in prioritized regions.
Recent developments include a training session held at the SPHCB Conference Hall in Naka, organized to prepare for the MAMII co-creation/activation workshop. The one-day training equipped relevant program officers with the knowledge and skills needed for the upcoming Deep-Dive exercise, scheduled for Thursday, 18th September 2025, at Ikpeana community, Ikyaghev council ward of Gwer-West Local Government Area. Dr. Kuma Gbanan, Benue State Desk Officer for Sector Wide Approach (SWAP), highlighted that data identifies 172 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across Nigeria as responsible for the high burden of maternal and newborn mortality, with Gwer-West prioritized in Benue State.
The Deep-Dive exercise, led by Dr. Gbanan, will uncover the major drivers of maternal and neonatal mortality in Gwer-West, with reports and contextual plans to be developed during the MAMII co-creation workshop. The initiative has garnered support from key stakeholders, including representatives from WHO, NPHHCDA, the State Ministry of Health, and Benue State Primary Health Care Board program officers.
During the training’s closing remarks, Prof. Silas Ochejele, Lead Consultant from the Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo, commended the Federal Ministry of Health for the intervention program. He urged participants to diligently carry out the service of saving lives, praying for divine reward for their efforts in service to humanity.
This collaborative effort underscores Benue State’s commitment to improving health outcomes, with the MAMII initiative poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of its residents.
