Reps urge free medical care for pregnant women
The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, resolved that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare direct public healthcare institutions to provide free medical treatment for pregnant women during and after delivery.
Rep. Mohammed Shehu (PDP-Bauchi) moved the motion for the debate during plenary. He, also, urged that the government equip the health institutions with drugs and adequate manpower. The lawmaker stated the recommendation would boost fertility rate.
“Nigeria is grappling with high disease rates, resulting in an annual maternal mortality rate of expectant mothers and children due to pregnancy complications and the polio virus.
“There is a need for the government to prioritise policy actions aimed at improving healthcare delivery systems, particularly for pregnant women, to alleviate their hardships and boost their confidence,” Shehu said. He urged the ministry to see to the implementation of the resolution.
“There is a need for the government to prioritise policy actions aimed at improving healthcare delivery systems, particularly for pregnant women, to alleviate their hardships and boost their confidence,” he said.
Following the debate, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu mandated the House Committee on Healthcare Services and Healthcare Institutions to liaise with the Minister of Health and Social Welfare to ensure compliance.
The committee is to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
