FG Distributes 1.3 Million Micronutrient Supplements to Boost Maternal Health
The Federal Government has announced the distribution of over 1.3 million bottles of Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) across 12 states, with plans to deliver an additional three million by the end of September.
This initiative aims to improve nutrition for pregnant women and reduce the alarming rate of micronutrient deficiencies in Nigeria.
Mr. Ado Bako, Acting Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, revealed this in a statement on Sunday, highlighting the significance of MMS for maternal health.
“The daily supplement, containing 15 essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and folic acid, supports healthier pregnancies and better birth outcomes.
“The introduction of MMS is a vital part of our broader strategy to combat maternal and infant mortality. By addressing nutrition needs, we are directly tackling the prevalent issue of micronutrient deficiencies that affect millions of pregnant women in Nigeria,” Bako explained.
“The decision to adopt MMS follows the 2020 World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation for antenatal care to ensure positive pregnancy experiences. Bako emphasized that the initiative aligns with WHO guidelines and the Ministry’s agenda to improve health outcomes, particularly in reducing Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA), which affects 60% of pregnant women in Nigeria, according to the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS).
“With MMS showing a proven ability to reduce risks such as low birth weight by 21%, stillbirth by 9%, and Small for Gestational Age (SGA) cases by 10%, the government aims to distribute 421 million tablets in 2024. The program also receives support from international partners, including UNICEF and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
“The donations are just a top-up to the doses already allocated for rollout,” Bako said, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving maternal and child health services across the nation.
As Nigeria continues its fight against maternal mortality, the Federal Government’s proactive measures in antenatal nutrition could mark a turning point in securing healthier futures for mothers and their newborns.
