Abeokuta – In a groundbreaking effort to tackle maternal mortality, the Ward Development Committee (WDC) of Ogun State has inaugurated 66 men as Maternal Health Gatekeepers across 22 health centres in seven local government areas.
The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), aims to increase male participation in maternal and child health, improve antenatal care (ANC) attendance, and boost facility-based deliveries.
Speaking at the inauguration held recently at SS Peter & Paul Cathedral, Isale Ake, Adatan, Abeokuta, Alhaji Asiwaju Dapo Wahab, JP, State Chairman of the WDC, emphasized the importance of male involvement in family health.
He said, “Men are often the decision-makers in households. By empowering them as gatekeepers, we can ensure timely referrals, better support for pregnant women, and ultimately save lives.”
Alhaji Wahab added, “This is not just a one-off event. We are committed to sustaining community awareness, strengthening the collaboration between WDCs and PHCs, and ensuring men continue to serve as advocates for maternal and child health.”
Dr Olaitan of the JDPC, who was present at the inauguration, charged the men to be committed to their duties.
He encouraged them to give their best in their assigned primary health centres.
According to him, “Your role is crucial. You are stepping in as community supporters who can help prevent avoidable maternal deaths. Stay dedicated and make sure your presence contributes to saving lives in every community you represent.”
The initiative covers Ogun Central, Ogun East, and Ogun West Senatorial Districts, engaging men in Odeda, Abeokuta South, Ewekoro, Imeko Afon, Ijebu North East, Remo North, and Ijebu Ode LGAs.
Health centres such as Bode Olude, Ijaye, Mosan, Ilara, Imewuro, Agbero, and Itamapako now have trained male gatekeepers tasked with advocating for maternal health, promoting ANC attendance, and facilitating rapid responses to obstetric emergencies.
The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-Being and is expected to increase ANC attendance by 25–40 percent, facility-based deliveries by 30 percent, and reduce delays in care-seeking for obstetric emergencies by 20 percent within the next 6–12 months.
The WDC Ogun State Council, JDPC, and partners such as the Ogun State Ministry of Health, PHC Board, WHO, and International Budget Partnership (IBP) will monitor the initiative through quarterly reports, supervisory visits, and community feedback mechanisms.
