The Lagos State Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON), Lagos Sector, to tackle the persistent challenge of maternal and neonatal mortality in the state.
This resolve was underscored during a high-level advocacy visit by SOGON leaders, including former National President Prof. Rotimi Akinola and Lagos Sector Chairman Prof. Abidoye Gbadegesin, to the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, at his office in Alausa, Ikeja.
Prof. Abayomi emphasized that human capital is Lagos’ most critical infrastructure and insisted that safeguarding maternal and infant health must be a top priority in public health investments. Reflecting on his recent observations from Southeast Asia, he highlighted the importance of investing in family health to secure the future of generations to come.
Describing childbirth as one of life’s most intense and vulnerable transitions, the Commissioner stressed the urgent need to make this process as safe as possible for both mothers and newborns.
In response to SOGON’s proposals, Prof. Abayomi welcomed the professional body’s input and pledged to integrate their recommendations into the Ministry’s strategic planning. “It’s time to move beyond talks and take real action. We are open to partnerships that deliver measurable impact,” he declared.
The Commissioner confirmed that SOGON’s suggestions, alongside the Voluntary Obstetrician Service Scheme (VOSS), would be critical resources for improving the state’s healthcare planning. He called for urgent expansion of residency training programs in general hospitals and requested detailed data from SOGON on workforce ratios and facility needs.
Highlighting the need to attract more young doctors to the obstetrics and gynaecology profession, Prof. Abayomi urged mentorship and practical exposure during medical training, encouraging SOGON’s support in inspiring the next generation of specialists.
On policy matters, the Commissioner committed to decentralizing obstetric care, enhancing community-level interventions, and improving regulation and education to prevent maternal deaths. He also addressed the delicate issue of safe termination of pregnancy, advocating for discreet, guideline-based policies, and announced plans to expand and redesign Maternal and Child Care Centres across Lagos for better outcomes.
Prof. Abayomi praised SOGON’s pool of over 350 obstetricians and gynaecologists as a vital resource to address the shortage of specialists across Lagos State hospitals.
Prof. Rotimi Akinola urged the institutionalization of the Volunteer Obstetrician Service Scheme, which leverages senior doctors to mentor frontline health workers in underserved areas. “Our members are ready to support health centres and identify obstetric emergencies early,” he said.
He further called for legal backing of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) program, which has operated on goodwill for over ten years. “We urge the Commissioner to help legislate this vital system — the draft is ready,” Prof. Akinola appealed.
Addressing the critical issue of unsafe abortion, Prof. Akinola revealed that it accounts for up to 13% of maternal deaths in Lagos. He clarified that SOGON advocates not for abortion on demand but for safe terminations where medically necessary. “We’re calling for practical policies to reduce preventable deaths — not moral debates,” he emphasized.
Prof. Abidoye Gbadegesin reiterated SOGON’s unwavering commitment to partnering with government to protect women’s health. “We represent 350 obstetricians and gynaecologists in Lagos. Our mission is clear: advocate for policies and practices that save mothers and children,” he stated.
He stressed the critical importance of skilled birth attendants during pregnancy and delivery, warning that lack of expertise remains a major driver of avoidable deaths. “WHO and FIGO insist on skilled care — anything less is a ticking time bomb,” he warned.
While commending the Lagos State Government’s maternal health initiatives, Prof. Gbadegesin urged deeper collaboration with professional bodies like SOGON from policy conception to implementation. “We must be intentionally involved to ensure the best outcomes,” he said.
Also present was Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo, Chief Medical Director of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and a pioneer of Lagos’ MPDSR desk, who contributed valuable insights into maternal death audits.
The meeting concluded with a consensus to hold a broader stakeholder forum to refine proposals and fast-track actions aimed at dramatically improving maternal and child health in Lagos State.
