Bauchi Health Experts Rally for Ban on Home Childbirth to Curb Maternal Mortality
Stakeholders in Bauchi State's health sector have raised urgent concerns over the high rate of maternal mortality, calling on the State House of Assembly to expedite legislation that would outlaw child delivery at home. This move aims to address a critical public health issue that has plagued the region for years.
Alarming Statistics Drive the Call for Action
According to national data, Bauchi is one of the states with the highest maternal mortality rates in Nigeria. During a recent stakeholders and media dialogue aimed at educating residents on this menace, health specialist Seyi Olosunde from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) presented disturbing statistics. Olosunde highlighted that numerous babies are lost within their first 28 days of life, underscoring the dire need for improved healthcare access and practices.
Legislative Response to a Growing Crisis
Recall that on January 29, 2026, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Abubakar Suleiman, announced plans to introduce a bill banning home childbirth. This declaration was made during a two-day High-Level Engagement with state and local government policymakers and legislators in Jos, Plateau State, focused on enhancing sexual reproductive health and rights, maternal newborn child healthcare, and nutrition.
Speaker Suleiman expressed deep concern over data from the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), which revealed that only three out of 10 women in Bauchi deliver in hospitals, accounting for a mere 31 percent. In stark contrast, 69 percent of women give birth at home, often without access to professional medical care, which contributes significantly to maternal and infant deaths.
Addressing Cultural Norms and Harmful Practices
George Eki, a Social Behaviour Change expert with UNICEF, emphasized that the proposed legislation could help tackle some of the cultural norms and harmful practices associated with childbirth in the state. By promoting hospital-based deliveries, the bill aims to reduce risks and improve health outcomes for both mothers and newborns, aligning with broader efforts to modernize healthcare systems and combat preventable deaths.
The push for this ban reflects a growing consensus among health experts and policymakers that immediate action is necessary to safeguard the well-being of women and children in Bauchi State. As discussions continue, stakeholders remain hopeful that swift legislative progress will lead to tangible improvements in maternal health and a reduction in mortality rates.
