Efforts to improve maternal healthcare services in Oyo State received a boost as the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board began the process of adapting the National Guidelines on Safe Termination of Pregnancy.
The two-day stakeholders’ meeting held at the University College Hospital brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and medical experts to review the guidelines and align them with the realities of healthcare delivery in the state.
Speaking during the engagement, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Olatunji, said the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to improving maternal health and reducing preventable deaths among women and adolescent girls. He explained that strengthening reproductive healthcare services remained a key priority of the government.
Dr. Olatunji noted that unsafe abortion practices continue to contribute to maternal deaths and health complications in many communities. According to him, adapting the national guidelines would help provide a clearer framework for healthcare providers to offer safe and ethical reproductive health services in line with approved medical and legal standards.
He also explained that the programme would encourage stronger collaboration among stakeholders in the health sector while promoting best practices capable of improving the wellbeing of women and families across Oyo State. Participants at the meeting discussed ways to enhance access to quality healthcare services and improve the skills of healthcare workers.
During a presentation at the session, the Executive Director of the Centre for Bridging Health Gaps, Dr. Moriam Olaide Jagun, stressed the importance of proper knowledge of the legal and medical guidelines surrounding safe termination of pregnancy. She said healthcare providers must be equipped with the right information, especially in situations where a woman’s life or health is at risk.
Dr. Jagun also called for compassionate and confidential care for women seeking reproductive health services. Participants described the session as insightful and practical, while stakeholders pledged continued support for policies and interventions aimed at reducing maternal health complications and improving access to life-saving healthcare services across Oyo State.