Benue Moves Against Maternal, Child Mortality, Begins Strategic Training of Health Workers

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Government of Benue State has commenced a five-day training programme for Master Trainers on Comprehensive Abortion Care, Post-Abortion Care, Family Planning, Safe Delivery, and Antenatal Services.

The initiative forms a key part of the state’s broader health transformation plan.
Described as a strategic training, the programme is part of government efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality, reinforcing its reform-driven health agenda under Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration.
The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, who declared the training open, said the initiative reflects Governor Alia’s commitment to translating policy into measurable impact across communities in Benue State.
He noted that current health indicators remain worrisome, with under-five mortality standing at 53 per 1,000 live births and neonatal mortality at 19 per 1,000, while maternal deaths continue to result largely from preventable causes.
Ogwuche emphasized that under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia, the health sector is transitioning from routine interventions to structured, result-oriented programmes aimed at strengthening service delivery at all levels.
According to him, the training will produce skilled Master Trainers from Gwer-West and Okpokwu Local Government Areas, who will subsequently build the capacity of frontline health workers across healthcare facilities in the coming months.
He added that this approach is designed to ensure that government investments translate directly into improved healthcare delivery for women and children at the grassroots.
The commissioner further stated that the programme aligns with the 2025–2027 State Health Strategic Plan championed by Governor Alia, which is focused on ensuring safer pregnancies, increasing family planning uptake, and improving health outcomes across the state.
Ogwuche acknowledged the support of IPAS Nigeria Health Foundation and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to accountability, quality care, and measurable results.
He called on participants to uphold professionalism, confidentiality, and respect in service delivery as they apply the knowledge gained. He added that the state anticipates measurable improvements in antenatal care attendance, increased skilled birth deliveries, and a sustained reduction in preventable maternal and neonatal complications as implementation progresses.