…Seeks Greater Investment in Health Sector
The Country Director for Rotary’s Reproductive, Maternal, and Child Health (RMCH) programme Prof. Emmanuel Lufadeju, has advocated the need for journalists to intensify coverage of maternal and newborn health, to further reduce the alarming maternal mortality rates in the country.
Prof.Lufadeju, made the call in Ado -Ekiti during a two day training workshops for some selected journalists the state.
He explained that the Rotary Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health (Rotary RMCH) was conducting the training to sensitize journalists on the need to engage the communities on a critical issue that affects the people and reducing maternal and neonatal mortalities in the country.
“Journalists hold a critical role in shaping public understanding of maternal and child health. By telling the stories of women and families impacted by maternal and neonatal mortality, reporters can put a human face to the statistics and inspire public action. Such coverage not only raises awareness but also places pressure on policymakers and healthcare providers to improve access to quality, lifesaving services”. He stated
Prof. Lufadeju, revealed that according to the World Health Organization, approximately 5.9 million children under five dies annually due to malnutrition, poor healthcare, and inadequate sanitation which calls for action to make a difference.
“In Nigeria the statistics are alarming maternal mortality rate stands at 993 deaths per 100,000 live births, one of the highest in the world. This translates to over 700 women dying daily from preventable pregnancy and childbirth complications. Every day, thousands of mothers risk their lives giving birth, and millions of children die from preventable causes” he noted
Prof Lufadeju explained that Rotary international has been working tirelessly to expand access to quality healthcare for mothers and children through the Provision of prenatal care, family planning, and birth kits distribution to vulnerable communities, training Healthcare Workers, supporting trained healthcare providers for mothers and children.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Human Services, Mrs. Olusola Igotun, commended Rotary International for its sustained commitment to improving the well-being of mothers and children in Nigeria.
She noted that the organization’s interventions ranging from equipping health facilities, capacity-building for health workers to advocacy for stronger health systems have made tangible difference in maternal and child health outcomes.
Recourse persons included Veteran journalist and Board Chairman of the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State, Chief Laolu Omosilade, urged participants to embrace accuracy, depth, and ethical standards in health reporting.
He emphasized that journalists should move beyond headlines and statistics by telling compelling human-interest stories that highlight the realities behind maternal and child health challenges.
Chief Omosilade stressed that well-researched stories can influence both public opinion and government action.
The Family Planning Coordinator, Ekiti State Ministry of Health and Human Services, Dr Busayo Ige underscored the crucial role of reproductive health education in reducing maternal and child mortality rates.
She shared insights into state level strategies for expanding access to modern contraceptives, improving antenatal care, and promoting male involvement in family planning.
Dr. Ige noted that the media plays a pivotal role in breaking down myths and challenging cultural barriers that continue to limit the adoption of family planning services.
