Nigeria has been recorded the second-highest number of maternal deaths in the world, accounting for up to 20 percent of global maternal death rates.
Despite recent improvements in maternal healthcare, the country still records one maternal death about every seven minutes.
The Federal Ministry of Health says maternal deaths in health facilities have declined due to better access to skilled birth attendants, improved referral systems, and increased investment in healthcare.
However, experts say severe bleeding, infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and obstructed labour remain the leading causes of maternal deaths. They also stress that delays in seeking medical care, poor transport, poverty, and a shortage of skilled health workers continue to put the lives of pregnant women at risk.
