The Edo State Government has launched a new Maternal and Newborn Health Innovation Initiative aimed at reducing preventable deaths among pregnant women and infants across the state.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Edo State Ministry of Health in partnership with local and international health organizations, introduces digital monitoring tools, real-time data systems, and improved referral networks to strengthen maternal and newborn care in public hospitals and primary healthcare centers.

Speaking during the launch in Benin City, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, said the initiative is part of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s broader agenda to improve access to quality healthcare and ensure no woman dies while giving life.

“This innovation-driven approach will enable us to track high-risk pregnancies, respond faster to emergencies, and improve supervision in rural clinics,” Dr. Alli said. “Maternal and newborn deaths are preventable when we have the right tools, trained workers, and timely intervention.”

Tech Meets Healthcare

Under the new initiative, the state will deploy mobile health technology for community health workers to report delivery complications and neonatal emergencies in real-time.
Health facilities will also benefit from capacity-building programs, including updated obstetric training, emergency preparedness, and data management.

Officials say the innovation integrates seamlessly with Edo’s Primary Health Care Revitalization Programme, which seeks to strengthen at least one functional health center in every ward across the 18 local government areas.

Public Health Impact

Recent health data shows that maternal mortality remains a major challenge in Nigeria, with over 500 deaths per 100,000 live births, a figure the Edo government is determined to drastically reduce.
Through this initiative, pregnant women will have greater access to antenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and emergency transport services.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mrs. Beatrice Igbinovia, emphasized that the innovation would bridge gaps in rural healthcare delivery and reduce avoidable deaths.

“We are building a system where no mother or baby dies unnoticed or unrecorded,” she said. “Every life matters, and technology will help us reach the last mile.”

Community Involvement

Community leaders, women’s groups, and traditional birth attendants were also engaged during the launch to ensure collaboration between local caregivers and formal health structures.
The initiative encourages pregnant women to register early for antenatal care and to deliver in accredited health facilities.

The state government says it will sustain partnerships with donor agencies and the private sector to expand the innovation to all local governments by 2026.

A Step Toward Zero Preventable Deaths

Edo’s maternal and newborn health innovation marks a critical step toward achieving zero preventable maternal and infant deaths, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to healthcare reform, promising continued investment in digital health systems, workforce development, and infrastructure upgrades.

“Every Edo life is precious,” the governor said. “This initiative represents our promise to protect mothers, nurture children, and build a healthier generation.”