The federal government has called for collective action to address healthcare challenges, especially women’s and children’s problems.

Health minister Muhammad Pate made the call during a side event hosted by the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria at the 65th National Council on Health in Maiduguri on Thursday.

The minister stressed the need for collaboration across all sectors, including government, healthcare providers and civil society organisations, “to tackle systemic barriers in healthcare, particularly in maternal health.”

He shared a personal account of a pregnant woman suffering from eclampsia, highlighting the risks faced by many Nigerians due to a lack of access to essential healthcare services.

Eclampsia is a rare but serious condition that occurs in the second half of pregnancy, causing seizures, high blood pressure, headaches, and blurry vision and convulsions, which usually occur in pregnant women with preeclampsia.

“We must act with urgency,” the minister declared, urging national effort to address the root causes of preventable deaths, particularly among women and children.

He called for a unified approach across federal, state and local levels, stressing the importance of the National Health Act, which aims to provide universal access to healthcare services.

Mr Pate also emphasised the need for improved healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, where limited access to services and resources remained significant
challenges.

He added, “It is not just about building more hospitals or clinics, but ensuring healthcare workers are trained, supported and equipped to deliver the best care.”

Mr Pate also called on the private sector to contribute to the national health agenda, aligning with government efforts to improve healthcare outcomes.

He highlighted the long-term benefits of improving women’s health, suggesting that solving maternal health challenges would create ripple effects, enhancing overall health outcomes for families and communities.

(NAN)