By Stella Edoka
The Kogi State House of Assembly has passed for second reading a bill seeking to provide free maternal and neonatal healthcare services for pregnant women and newborns in government-owned health facilities across the state.
The bill, sponsored by the member representing Omala State Constituency, Umar Yahaya, aims to guarantee free antenatal care, skilled delivery services, including caesarean sections, neonatal care, immunisation, and access to essential drugs for mothers and newborns.
Leading the debate during plenary, Yahaya said the proposed legislation is designed to eliminate financial barriers that prevent many women from accessing timely and quality healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth.
He expressed concern over the high rate of maternal and neonatal mortality, noting that many deaths are linked to the inability of families to afford medical services.
The lawmaker also emphasized the need to establish a legal framework for existing maternal and child health programmes in the state to ensure sustainability, accountability, and improved healthcare outcomes.
Lawmakers who contributed to the debate described the bill as a major step toward strengthening healthcare delivery and reducing maternal and infant mortality in Kogi State.
The bill has now scaled second reading and is expected to undergo further legislative consideration.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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