By Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Benue State has recorded an under-five mortality rate of 53 per 1,000 live births and a neonatal mortality rate of 19 per 1,000, with maternal deaths still largely driven by preventable causes.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, disclosed this at the commencement of a five-day training of Master Trainers on Comprehensive Abortion Care, Post-Abortion Care, Family Planning, Safe Delivery, and Antenatal Services.
The programme forms part of the state’s broader health sector transformation agenda.
Dr. Ogwuche said the government has intensified efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality, in line with the reform-driven policies of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
He noted that the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to translating health policies into measurable impact across communities.
According to him, the training will produce skilled Master Trainers drawn from Gwer-West and Okpokwu Local Government Areas, who will, in turn, build the capacity of frontline health workers across the state in the coming months.
He explained that the approach is designed to ensure that government investments translate into improved healthcare delivery, particularly for women and children at the grassroots.
The Commissioner further stated that the programme aligns with the 2025–2027 State Health Strategic Plan aimed at ensuring safer pregnancies, increased uptake of family planning, and improved health outcomes across the state.
Dr. Ogwuche acknowledged the support of IPAS Nigeria Health Foundation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accountability, quality healthcare delivery, and measurable results.
He also urged participants to uphold professionalism, confidentiality, and respect in service delivery, stressing that effective implementation of the training will lead to improved antenatal care attendance, increased skilled birth deliveries, and a reduction in preventable maternal and neonatal complications.
