●●●●emerges Nigeria’s Leader in Maternal Healthcare Access
Prince Eze Ugochukwu
In a significant achievement for maternal and child health in Nigeria, Imo State has recorded the highest percentage of live births delivered by skilled health personnel, according to the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2024.
Data released by Statisense shows that 97% of births in Imo State were attended by qualified health workers — placing the state at No. 1 nationally. This remarkable figure underscores the effectiveness of healthcare policies, infrastructure investments, and community health initiatives in Imo state.
Imo’s performance is closely followed by fellow South East states Enugu (96%) and Abia (95%), highlighting a strong regional dominance in skilled birth attendance. Southern states largely occupy the top 12 positions, with several recording rates above 90%.
Key Highlights for Imo State:
– *National Rank*: 1st.
– *Skilled Birth Attendance Rate:* 97%.
– *Regional Zone:* South East (SE).
– *Significance:* This near-universal coverage significantly reduces risks associated with childbirth complications and contributes to lower maternal and infant mortality rates. Health experts often cite skilled attendance at birth as one of the most critical interventions for improving maternal health outcomes.
Imo State’s outstanding result reflects positively on the state government’s commitment to strengthening primary healthcare facilities, training and deploying midwives, and promoting facility-based deliveries.
