A Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Abidoye Gbadegesin, has called for stronger healthcare systems and policy reforms to safeguard maternal and child health in Nigeria.
He made the call in Lagos on Wednesday while delivering the institution’s 120th inaugural lecture titled, “Safeguarding the Continuation of the Human Race: Challenges and Prospects in Maternal and Child Health.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the don described obstetrics and gynaecology as a critical medical specialty focused on the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period, and overall reproductive health.
According to him, obstetrics focuses on the management of both normal and high-risk pregnancies to ensure the well-being of mothers and newborns, while gynaecology addresses reproductive health issues such as infertility, infections, menstrual disorders, and cancers.
“The combined specialty provides a continuum of care, from adolescent reproductive health to childbirth and geriatric gynaecological care,” he said.
Gbadegesin traced the evolution of the discipline from ancient community-based midwifery practices to modern, technology-driven healthcare systems.
He noted that in Nigeria, the specialty had evolved from traditional care in the pre-colonial era to structured medical services introduced during the colonial period.
The professor identified the establishment of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria in 1965 as a major milestone in advancing reproductive healthcare through research, education, and advocacy.
Citing Federal Ministry of Health data, Gbadegesin said Nigeria recorded a 17 per cent decline in maternal deaths in high-burden areas between 2024 and 2025.
He added that the adoption of the E-MOTIVE protocol for the management of postpartum haemorrhage led to a 60 per cent reduction in severe bleeding during clinical trials in Nigerian hospitals.
The don, however, expressed concern that only about 52 per cent of births in the country are attended by skilled health personnel, with rural communities still lagging behind.
He also highlighted advancements in reproductive technology, noting that Nigeria is among the top five countries in Africa offering In Vitro Fertilisation services.
Gbadegesin said the increasing use of minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopy had improved treatment outcomes for conditions including fibroids and endometriosis.
He added that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence-powered ultrasound devices and mobile health applications, were improving access to care, especially in underserved communities.
Despite the progress, the professor said Nigeria still faces a high maternal mortality rate.
He identified the major causes of maternal deaths as haemorrhage, pre-eclampsia, obstructed labour, sepsis, and complications from unsafe abortion.
Gbadegesin recommended systemic reforms, including strengthening primary healthcare systems, expanding preventive care, and recruiting more skilled health workers.
He also called for improved health infrastructure, stronger data systems, and increased funding for maternal and child healthcare.
The don urged LASU and its teaching hospital to expand research, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and improve access to quality care.
He also called for stronger collaboration among the government, private sector, non-governmental organisations, and communities to tackle maternal and child health challenges.
According to him, increased budgetary allocation, enforcement of health policies, and adoption of digital health innovations are critical to improving outcomes.
Gbadegesin also advocated public awareness campaigns to promote exclusive breastfeeding and early health-seeking behaviour.
He expressed optimism that with sustained commitment and strategic interventions, Nigeria could significantly reduce maternal and child mortality and secure a healthier future for its population.
