NEWS
Abia Emerges Among Nigeria’s Safest States for Childbirth as NDHS 2024 Places State in Top Three for Skilled Birth Attendance
Abia State has once again gained national recognition in the health sector after emerging as one of the leading states in Nigeria with the highest percentage of live births attended by skilled health personnel, according to data released by the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2024.
The report placed Abia in the third position nationwide with an impressive 95 percent of live births delivered under the supervision of skilled health workers, reaffirming the growing confidence in the state’s healthcare system and maternal care services.
Only Imo State, which recorded 97 percent, and Enugu State with 96 percent, ranked slightly above Abia in the national assessment. The latest figures further position Abia as one of the strongest-performing states in maternal and child healthcare delivery across Nigeria.
The NDHS report showed that southern states dominated the top rankings, reflecting improved investments in healthcare infrastructure, access to medical services, public health awareness, and the availability of trained medical professionals during childbirth.
Other states that made the top list include Ekiti with 94 percent, Edo with 93 percent, Anambra and Osun with 92 percent each, Rivers with 92 percent, while Lagos recorded 87 percent. Oyo and Ogun both stood at 83 percent.
Health experts have consistently emphasized that childbirth attended by skilled medical personnel significantly reduces maternal and infant mortality rates, prevents complications during delivery, and improves postnatal outcomes for both mothers and newborns.
Abia’s strong performance is being viewed as a reflection of the increasing attention being given to the health sector, particularly in maternal and child healthcare services, primary healthcare revitalization, and improved access to qualified medical professionals across urban and rural communities.
The ranking is also expected to strengthen public confidence in healthcare delivery within the state, especially as stakeholders continue to advocate for improved hospital facilities, better welfare for health workers, and sustained investments in healthcare infrastructure.
With Abia now standing firmly among Nigeria’s best-performing states in skilled birth attendance, the report has further reinforced the argument that quality healthcare delivery remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and human capital growth.