In a bid to enhance maternal healthcare and reduce maternal mortality rates in the state, the Ogun State government has introduced a free delivery program called “Ibidero,” targeting 15,000 pregnant women.

Dr. Tomi Coker, the Commissioner for Health, announced this initiative in Abeokuta, the state capital.

The health insurance scheme is specifically aimed at indigent pregnant women across the 20 local government areas of Ogun State.

ALSO READ: UNICEF gifts oxygen plant to Ogun hospital

Enrolled pregnant women will have access to free maternal health services at designated health centers, ultimately mitigating the risk of complications during or after pregnancy.

“Ibidero” also incorporates a conditional cash transfer component, providing stipends to pregnant women upon delivering their babies at the assigned health facility.

Each beneficiary will be registered at hospitals conveniently located within walking distance of their homes.

Dr. Coker highlighted the success of the pilot phase, where 3,000 pregnant women benefited last year. With the approval of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the program is set to scale up to reach 15,000 beneficiaries.

Approximately 300 public and private health facilities at the primary and secondary levels have been enlisted to participate in the program.

The government believes that this initiative will significantly contribute to reducing maternal mortality cases linked to extreme economic vulnerability in the state.

Ogun State currently faces a maternal mortality rate that aligns with the global challenge, with Nigeria ranking fourth globally at 917 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Dr. Coker emphasized that many of these deaths are preventable, and the “Ibidero” program is a timely intervention to encourage pregnant women to seek healthcare services in designated facilities.

ALSO READ: Apple Co-Founder Steve Wozniak hospitalized following suspected stroke

The cash transfer incentive is designed to motivate regular attendance at antenatal care sessions and prompt deliveries at assigned hospitals, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality resulting from complications.

Dr. Coker assured the public that the government remains dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality, and accessible healthcare for all.