NEWS
ABIA DOMESTICATES FEDERAL RURAL EMERGENCY SERVICES AND MATERNAL TRANSPORT PROGRAMME, TARGETS HIGH-RISK LGAs TO CURB MATERNAL AND NEONATAL MORTALITY
The Abia State Government has taken a decisive and strategic step in strengthening its healthcare delivery system with the domestication of a critical federal government initiative aimed at reducing maternal and child deaths across vulnerable communities.
He disclosed that the Rural Emergency Services and Maternal Transport Programme of the federal government has been domesticated in the state.
The Abia state Commissioner for Information, Prince Kanu broke the cheering news on Monday at Government House Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
The announcement, which has been widely received as a major boost to the state’s healthcare system, underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges: maternal and neonatal mortality. By aligning with the federal initiative, Abia State is positioning itself to deliver timely emergency medical interventions, especially in rural and underserved communities where access to healthcare remains a critical concern.
He said that the programme commenced with three LGAs of Bende, Obingwa and Ukwa East reputed to have the highest maternal mortality rates in the state.
The choice of these three local government areas reflects a data-driven approach by the state government, targeting regions most affected by maternal health complications. Health experts believe that focusing on these high-risk areas will significantly improve survival rates for pregnant women, newborns, and children, while also strengthening emergency response systems within the communities.
“The major objective of the programme is to provide access to emergency care in order to reduce maternal, child and neonatal mortality,“ Prince Kanu stated
With this initiative now in motion, stakeholders in the health sector are optimistic that the integration of emergency transport services and improved response mechanisms will bridge critical gaps in maternal healthcare delivery, ultimately saving lives and advancing Abia State’s vision of a more responsive and inclusive h
ealth system.