BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
As the world observes World Health Day with the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures”, the Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, has issued a clarion call for increased and sustained efforts to reduce preventable maternal and child deaths globally.
In an interview commemorating the annual health awareness event, Dr. Akpoveta underscored the urgent need to prioritize maternal and newborn health in both policy formulation and healthcare practice.
Citing disturbing global statistics, he revealed that nearly 300,000 women die annually due to complications arising from pregnancy or childbirth.
Additionally, over two million babies die within their first month of life, while another two million are stillborn.
“These tragic outcomes are largely preventable with timely, quality healthcare interventions,” Dr. Akpoveta said, emphasizing the need for comprehensive maternal care throughout pregnancy, delivery, and postnatal periods.
He highlighted the importance of equipping health systems to manage obstetric emergencies and ensuring access to essential services such as family planning.
Reaffirming Delta State’s commitment to tackling this issue, Dr. Akpoveta disclosed that the state government, through the MORE Agenda, has allocated N1.6 billion to bolster maternal and child health programs across the state.
This funding, he explained, is aimed at guaranteeing that all pregnant women and children under five, regardless of indigene status, can access quality healthcare without barriers.
He further noted that the Commission remains steadfast in its mission to build a more inclusive and resilient healthcare system that supports women and families at every stage of life.
“This is not just a health issue; it is a human rights issue,” Dr. Akpoveta said.
“We must act together, governments, communities, and healthcare providers, to ensure healthier beginnings and hopeful futures for every mother and child.”
As World Health Day turns global attention to health equity, Dr. Akpoveta called on all stakeholders to rise to the challenge with collaborative and decisive action, ensuring no woman or child is left behind.
