By Khadija Kubau
The Maternal Accountability Mechanism in Kaduna Initiative (KADMAM) has called on the Kaduna State Government to strengthen the implementation of its 2026 health budget to accelerate efforts aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality across the state.
The group made the call in a statement issued on Saturday to mark the International Women’s Day 2026 celebration.
KADMAM noted that while the day is globally observed to celebrate the achievements and resilience of women, it also offers an opportunity to reflect on the persistent health challenges threatening the lives of women and children.
According to the organization, maternal mortality and deaths of children under the age of five remain serious public health concerns in Nigeria, stressing that increased investment and effective implementation of health policies are necessary to reverse the trend.
The group commended the Kaduna State Government for prioritizing the health sector, particularly initiatives aimed at strengthening Primary Health Care (PHC) services, which serve as the first point of care for most women and children in both rural and urban communities.
KADMAM also welcomed the recent distribution of modern medical equipment and ambulances to PHC facilities across the state, noting that the intervention is expected to improve service delivery, emergency response, and referral systems.
The organization referenced the explanation by Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, who said the intervention represents the second tranche of state-of-the-art medical equipment distributed to primary healthcare centres by his administration since assuming office. The move, he said, is aimed at improving access to quality healthcare at the grassroots.
However, KADMAM emphasized that beyond infrastructure and equipment, consistent funding, availability of essential drugs, deployment of skilled health workers, and expanded access to family planning services remain critical to reducing preventable maternal and child deaths.
“As we commemorate International Women’s Day, we call on government, development partners, civil society organizations and community leaders to intensify efforts toward ensuring that no woman dies while giving life and that every child has the opportunity to survive and thrive,” the statement added.
