Infant mortality remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Nigeria. While medical advancements have significantly reduced child deaths in many parts of the world, Nigeria continues to record alarmingly high rates.
Every year, over a quarter million Nigerian newborns die, translating to approximately 700 deaths per day. This staggering figure places Nigeria second only to India in neonatal deaths, making it the highest in Africa.
The question remains: Why is this crisis persisting, and what can be done to change the narrative?
The Numbers in Nigeria
Neonatal mortality accounts for more than 60% of infant deaths worldwide. Out of 7.7 million global deaths of children under five, 3.1 million occur within the first month of life. Unfortunately, 99% of these deaths happen in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria.
Despite global efforts, Nigeria has only seen a slow decline in neonatal mortality rates. Between 1990 and 2011, the rate dropped by just 20.4%, from 49 deaths per 1,000 live births to 39.
Data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) also indicate a marginal decline from 42 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 40 in 2008. In simple terms, one in every 25 neonates born in Nigeria does not survive their first month.
Causes of Infant Mortality in Nigeria
Several preventable factors contribute to Nigeria’s high infant mortality rate:
Infectious Diseases: Nearly 36% of neonatal deaths are caused by infections. Sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis, and diarrhea remain rampant due to poor hygiene, lack of clean water, and inadequate healthcare access.
Birth Complications: Birth asphyxia (lack of oxygen at birth) and complications from preterm birth contribute significantly to neonatal deaths. Many Nigerian mothers give birth at home without skilled birth attendants, increasing the risk of complications.
Low Birth Weight and Malnutrition: Infants born with low birth weight face a higher risk of death, especially when they do not receive adequate postnatal care. Malnutrition in mothers further exacerbates the situation, leading to weaker babies with poor survival chances.
Poor Access to Healthcare: Despite efforts to improve maternal and child healthcare services, many Nigerian women still lack access to skilled healthcare during pregnancy and delivery. Rural communities are especially vulnerable due to a shortage of medical facilities and professionals.
Lack of Antenatal and Postnatal Care: Many women in Nigeria do not receive proper antenatal care, which is critical in preventing pregnancy complications. Similarly, postnatal care remains inadequate, leaving newborns vulnerable to preventable illnesses.
The Urban-Rural Divide
Where a child is born in Nigeria significantly impacts their chances of survival. Studies show that neonatal mortality rates are higher in rural areas compared to urban centers. In some northern states, home deliveries remain the norm due to cultural beliefs and poor healthcare access.
Data from the NDHS reveal that home deliveries increased from 58% in 1999 to 66% in 2003 and slightly decreased to 62% in 2008. However, this still means that a significant proportion of Nigerian women give birth outside health facilities, exposing their babies to preventable risks.
Comparing Nigeria’s Progress with Other African Countries
While Nigeria struggles with high infant mortality rates, other African nations have made notable progress. For example:
Ghana has successfully reduced neonatal deaths through improved healthcare infrastructure and community health programs. Uganda has implemented better maternal healthcare policies, resulting in a sharper decline in infant mortality rates.
The key difference? These countries have prioritized maternal and child healthcare through government interventions and international partnerships.
The Role of Government and Policy Makers
The Nigerian government has made efforts to address infant mortality, but challenges persist. Some of the initiatives include:
- National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS): Aimed at providing affordable healthcare, though its coverage remains limited.
- Primary Health Care (PHC) programs: Focused on improving rural healthcare services, yet many PHC centers are underfunded and understaffed.
- Immunization Programs: Nigeria has increased vaccination rates, but many children still miss life-saving vaccines due to lack of awareness and logistical challenges.
The Way Forward: Solutions to Reduce Infant Mortality
To effectively reduce infant mortality in Nigeria, a multi-faceted approach is required:
- Improving Healthcare Infrastructure: Building more hospitals, equipping rural clinics, and hiring skilled birth attendants can significantly reduce neonatal deaths.
- Increasing Access to Skilled Birth Attendants: Encouraging hospital deliveries and training traditional birth attendants to recognize and refer complications promptly can save lives.
- Strengthening Immunization Campaigns: Ensuring all infants receive essential vaccines will reduce deaths caused by preventable diseases.
- Enhancing Public Awareness: Educating mothers on antenatal care, nutrition, and safe delivery practices can reduce the risks associated with childbirth.
- Investing in Nutrition Programs: Providing nutritional support for pregnant women can improve birth outcomes and reduce neonatal deaths.
- Government Commitment and Funding: Increased budgetary allocations to healthcare, particularly maternal and child health, are important.
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Bottom Line
Infant mortality in Nigeria is not just a health issue; it is a national emergency that demands urgent attention. With the right policies, investments, and community engagement, Nigeria can turn the tide and ensure that more of its newborns live to celebrate their first birthday. The time to act is now.
