By Muhammad Amaan
The 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) has revealed alarming statistics on early childhood mortality rates across the country, signalling a pressing public health crisis.
The NDHS report was released on Thursday, indicated that approximately 41 out of every 1,000 infants die within their first month of life, and 63 die before reaching their first birthday.
The survey stated that the under-five mortality rate stood at a staggering 110 deaths per 1,000 live births, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
The data revealed significant regional disparities, with the North West zone reporting the highest childhood mortality rates.
“For instance, Kano State has the highest neonatal mortality rate at 59 deaths per 1,000 live births,
“The South West recorded the lowest rates, highlighting critical differences in healthcare access and quality across Nigeria,” it said.
The survey also highlighted the importance of maternal care in improving child survival rates.
Experts said that these statistics reflected real lives lost and families impacted.
Dr Amina Suleiman, a paediatrician, said that, the high rates of neonatal and infant mortality indicated systemic issues in healthcare delivery, especially in underserved regions.
“Addressing these challenges requires urgent and coordinated efforts from the government and health organisations.
“While 63 per cent of women reported receiving antenatal care from skilled providers for their most recent live birth, only 52 per cent had at least four antenatal visits, below the recommended standard.
“Antenatal care is crucial for monitoring both maternal and child health, increased access to skilled healthcare during pregnancy can significantly reduce mortality rates,” she said.
Although Nigeria has made some progress in reducing under-five mortality rates from 193 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 110 today, neonatal mortality rates have stagnated.
This raises concerns about the effectiveness of current health interventions.
Community health workers, like Ms Binta Mustapha from Niger State, were on the front lines of this crisis, providing vital education and resources to mothers in rural areas.
“We often see mothers who lack basic knowledge about maternal health, which affects their children’s survival chances.
“We must continue to educate and empower women,” she said.
As Nigeria strives to improve health outcomes for children, the need for comprehensive strategies to advance maternal and child health has never been more urgent.
Executive Director of the Vaccine Network for Disease Control, Mrs Chika Offor called for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure in high-mortality states.
She urged the government to prioritise women’s health education and access to services.
“The time for action is now. As the data shows, the health of Nigeria’s children and their mothers depends on it,” Offor said.
