By Adejola Adeyemi Crown
Abeokuta, Ogun State – Governor Dapo Abiodun has urged Birth Attendants in Ogun State to uphold the highest standards of care, warning that no mother or child should be lost due to negligence, outdated practices, or unsafe procedures.
He made the remarks on Wednesday while officially opening the 2025 Annual Birth Attendants’ Conference in Abeokuta.
The conference, which brings together Traditional, Mission, and Community-Based Birth Attendants from across the State, focused on this year’s theme, “The Role of Birth Attendants in Safe Deliveries.”
Representing the Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele commended the Ogun State Alternate Medicine Board under the leadership of Balogun Nurudeen Olaleye for sustaining the initiative.
He said, “Birth Attendants play a central role in the healthcare landscape of our State. Pregnancy and childbirth demand skill, compassion, discipline, and sound judgment.”
“This conference offers an opportunity to refresh knowledge, adopt improved methods, and strengthen practices that prevent avoidable maternal and newborn deaths.”
The Governor stressed that in rural and underserved communities, Birth Attendants often serve as the first and most trusted point of contact for pregnant women.
He noted, “Continuous training is essential to equip you with the skills, standards, and confidence needed to provide safe and ethical care. No woman or child should be lost due to negligence, misinformation, or procedures that no longer meet safety standards.”
He also warned against harmful practices, saying, “No one should hide under the cover of traditional practice to carry out activities that endanger lives.”
“Ogun State will not tolerate actions that compromise safety or bring disrepute to our values. As Yoruba people, we are defined by integrity, diligence, patience, and respect for human life.”
The Governor highlighted the State Government’s commitment to maternal healthcare, noting that the Alternate Medicine Board has supported community-based and alternative care initiatives since 2020.
“These efforts have contributed to improved maternal and neonatal outcomes across our State, demonstrating the value of continuous learning, collaboration, and regulation,” he added.
Under the “Building Our Future Together” agenda, Governor Abiodun said the government would continue to strengthen community healthcare systems, equip frontline workers with essential skills, deepen collaboration with stakeholders, and expand training opportunities for Birth Attendants.
He concluded, “You are guardians of life at its most delicate moment. Carry this responsibility with pride, with discipline, and with deep respect for humanity. I hereby declare the 2025 Annual Birth Attendants’ Conference open, to the glory of God and for the progress of humanity.”
