Nigeria Accounts for 14% of Global Maternal Deaths Amid Renewed Health Reforms

Nigeria accounts for approximately 14% of global maternal deaths, reflecting a major public health challenge despite ongoing efforts to reduce this burden. Recent data from the 2023 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey indicate a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, down from 576 in 2018, highlighting some progress amid persistent challenges. The government is implementing robust health reforms, including new national guidelines and strategic policies aimed at improving maternal health outcomes and reducing preventable deaths in childbirth.

Nigeria contributes about 14% of global maternal deaths, according to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako. Maternal deaths are among the country’s most pressing public health issues, despite a declining maternal mortality ratio—from 576 in 2018 to 512 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023. This reduction is modest yet significant given Nigeria’s large population and complex health system challenges. The country also experiences high under-five and neonatal mortality rates, with 110 under-five deaths per 1,000 live births and 41 neonatal deaths per 1,000 ​.

Persistent economic hardship, widespread poverty, inadequate health infrastructure, and insufficient healthcare financing are key drivers behind Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rate. The lifetime risk of dying from pregnancy-related complications in Nigeria is 1 in 22, starkly contrasting with 1 in 4,900 in developed countries. These statistics underscore the urgent need for systemic healthcare reforms and targeted interventions ​.

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In response to the crisis, the Federal Government launched major reforms including the Safe Motherhood Strategy (2024–2028) and guidelines for managing postpartum hemorrhage—the leading cause of maternal death. The government has introduced six new policy documents focused on improving maternal healthcare commodity availability and service delivery nationwide. Additionally, under the Maternal and Infant Mortality Initiative (MAMI), a 17% reduction in maternal deaths was recorded in 172 local government areas, signaling progress in targeted interventions ​.

Efforts also include the Nigeria Strategic Directions for Nursing and Midwifery (NSDNM) 2025–2030, aimed at strengthening the nursing and midwifery workforce crucial to maternal care through improved training, deployment, and governance, supported by WHO and international partners ​.