Lagos govt, TBAs strengthen referral system to curb maternal, newborn deaths

The Lagos State Government has sought stronger collaboration between Traditional Birth Attendants, TBAs, and healthcare professionals to enhance maternal and newborn health in the region. During a meeting at the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Secretariat, Permanent Secretary Dr. Monsurat Adeleke noted a decline in TBA services from January to July 2026, compared to the same period in 2025.

Registrations among TBAs dropped by 31.9 percent, from 1,594 in 2025 to 1,085 in 2026, while deliveries conducted by TBAs decreased by 36 percent, from 1,308 to 837.

During the meeting, Adeleke clarified that the decline could either indicate increased women using health facilities or a reluctance to seek healthcare services. She urged TBAs to ensure women with severe complications, such as heavy bleeding, protracted labor, high blood pressure, and convulsions, were promptly referred to professional healthcare immediately.

She also encouraged healthcare workers to receive these referred patients properly and maintain communication with TBAs. Adeleke expressed confidence that better cooperation between TBAs and healthcare workers would help reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths.

The Lagos State Government is working with the Federal Government and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) on the MAAMI program to facilitate timely transportation of women in labor to healthcare facilities. Adeleke reminded residents that the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) operates 24/7 and can be reached through the emergency number.

She emphasized the importance of every referral for a woman, baby, and family. Earlier, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Chairman Hon. Sesan Olowa expressed gratitude for the Lagos State Government's ongoing support for TBAs and urged the attendants to refer cases beyond their capacity and prevent maternal and child deaths.