Abuja: The Academy of Medical Sciences has condemned the continued maternal mortality, epidemic risks and called for ways to control them. President of the academy, Prof. Frank Giwa-Osagie, said this in a statement issued by Prof. Mayowa Owolabi, the Secretary of the academy on Thursday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Giwa-Osagie emphasized that deaths associated with pregnancy and childbirth, as well as preventable deaths of newborns, remain unacceptable. He stated, “There is no need and no justification for the continued loss of lives related to pregnancy and childbirth.” The president also pointed out the necessity for addressing epidemic risks with adequate preparedness, drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and other recurring outbreaks such as Ebola and Lassa fever.
The academy is set to hold its inaugural biennial Presidential colloquium to tackle issues of maternal mortality, epidemic risks, brain-drain, and other challenges plaguing the healthcare system. Scheduled for July 30 in Lagos, the event will focus on the theme ‘Nigeria’s Health at a Crossroad: Confronting Workforce Shortages, Epidemic Risks and Maternal Mortality.’ Experts at the colloquium are expected to lead discussions on enhancing the country’s disease prevention and response systems and improving healthcare delivery.
Another focal point for the colloquium will be the ongoing migration of skilled health professionals, known as brain drain, which has significantly depleted Nigeria’s healthcare workforce. The president highlighted that experts will explore the causes of this trend and propose strategies to retain skilled medical personnel within the country. Additionally, the academy will present its Rapid Response Committee Initiative, aimed at supporting timely responses to health emergencies nationwide.
Giwa-Osagie mentioned that the colloquium would gather medical experts, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to formulate sustainable recommendations for advancing healthcare delivery in Nigeria. The Academy of Medical Sciences, an independent academic body, focuses on providing objective advice on medical matters, education, research, and public health.