Abuja: The Association of Fetomaternal Medicine Specialists of Nigeria (AFEMSON) has renewed calls for urgent action against preterm births, describing them as a major contributor to perinatal morbidity and mortality across Nigeria. Speaking virtually at the 9th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference, Harmony 2026, in Ilorin, AFEMSON President, Prof. Jamilu Tukur, emphasised the need for evidence-based interventions nationwide.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the conference featured presentations by medical experts from Nigeria and abroad, focusing on strategies to improve maternal, fetal, and newborn health outcomes. The conference, themed ‘Reducing Iatrogenic and Preventable Preterm Births in Nigeria’, addressed a critical healthcare challenge and provided a platform for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to exchange practical solutions.
Prof. Tukur stated that the gathering offered an opportunity to discuss evidence-based strategies for preventing avoidable preterm births and improving neonatal outcomes, while advancing maternal and perinatal healthcare delivery across Nigeria. He highlighted AFEMSON’s commitment to promoting maternal and perinatal health through clinical excellence, research, training, and advocacy.
Tukur emphasized that preterm birth remains a major contributor to perinatal morbidity and mortality. He reiterated that the conference provides a valuable platform for discussing strategies aimed at preventing avoidable preterm births nationwide. He also noted that the association continues to shape maternal healthcare policies despite persistent challenges surrounding preterm birth, newborn survival, and access to quality maternal healthcare services.
The outcomes of the conference are expected to support ongoing advocacy efforts aimed at improving specialist training, strengthening clinical guidelines, and enhancing health system support for pregnant women and newborns. The virtual format of the conference allowed participation from colleagues across Nigeria and around the world, reducing logistical challenges.
Prof. Hadijat Raji, Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, said the conference united clinicians, researchers, educators, advocates, and partners in fetomaternal medicine. She noted the conference theme was timely and relevant, addressing one of the most pressing challenges in maternal, fetal, and newborn healthcare in Nigeria.
The conference also focused on key subthemes such as the FIGO PremPrep 5 Initiative, protocol standardisation in fetomaternal practice, and community engagement strategies aimed at improving birth preparedness and health outcomes. These areas underscore the need for specialist expertise, effective implementation, and meaningful partnerships with families and communities.
In a communiqu© issued at the conference, AFEMSON announced the inauguration of a new Clinical Practice Guideline for the Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management of Preterm Birth in Nigeria. The association urged governments and healthcare institutions to adopt the guideline immediately to strengthen efforts at reducing preventable preterm births and improving neonatal survival rates. Recommendations included prioritising funding for fetomaternal services, integrating them into healthcare facilities, and investing in electronic medical records.
The communiqu© also advised hospitals to audit iatrogenic deliveries and invest in point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) equipment, as well as specialist training for obstetricians, gynaecologists, sonographers, and midwives.