The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on the government and civil society to work together to bring down the high rate of maternal and neonatal mortality in the country.

WHO Country Representative to Nigeria, Dr Walter Kazadi Molumbo, who made the call during a walk to mark World Health Day in Abuja, described as unacceptable, the high rate of maternal and newborn deaths in the country and advocated immediate and coordinated action among stakeholders to reverse the trend.

He noted that while the recent National Demographic Health Survey provides insight into the situation, the previous data already indicated that maternal and neonatal mortality rates in Nigeria remain high.

Molumbo stated that the theme of this year’s World Health Day reminds the world of why the WHO was created, to promote health, save lives, and help people live healthily across all stages of life.

He highlighted WHO’s ongoing support to the country, especially with the recent launch of the MAMI initiative, an effort by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to reduce deaths among mothers and newborns.

Molumbo explained that the initiative presents an opportunity for the government, civil society, and communities to work together and bring down the numbers significantly before 2030.

He expressed the determination of the WHO to strengthen collaboration with health workers, improve guidelines, and ensure readiness to respond to health needs across the country.

“It’s not about them and us; it’s all of us together. WHO is committed to scaling up its efforts with a sense of urgency,” he added.