The Anambra State Government has recorded 102,643 deliveries and 343 cesarean sections within 18 months following the introduction of its free antenatal care and delivery policy.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike disclosed this on Friday in Awka while highlighting the state’s achievements in the healthcare sector.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo had launched the initiative on September 5, 2023, as part of efforts to improve maternal health and ensure accessible healthcare for pregnant women.
“Anambra is now one of the states with the lowest maternal mortality rates,” Obidike stated. “We have seen an influx of pregnant women from neighboring states registering for antenatal care in Anambra.”
The commissioner also emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and personnel, noting that over 1,000 health workers had been recruited, while new hospitals were built, and existing facilities upgraded.
“To ensure the best care for our people, consultants, doctors, and nurses in the state now earn competitive salaries of up to half a million naira, nearly a quarter of a million, and over N100,000 per month, respectively,” he added.
Beyond healthcare, Obidike highlighted investments in education and job creation, including the recruitment of 8,115 teachers and the launch of the ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ initiative to equip young people with vocational skills.
“Governor Soludo’s administration has hired over 9,000 workers who will remain part of the state’s workforce until retirement and pension eligibility. No previous government has invested in human capital development as sustainably as this administration,” he remarked.
Governor Soludo, during the launch of the free antenatal care policy, described it as a crucial palliative measure aimed at alleviating economic hardship and improving access to quality healthcare, particularly at the grassroots level.
“Our goal is to ensure no expectant mother is denied healthcare due to financial constraints. Every mother deserves a safe delivery and access to quality medical care,” Soludo stated.
