The refusal of federal, state and local governments to release funds for the payment of salaries of midwives in the country has been the major cause in the increase of maternal mortality in the country.
While 10% of the proposed 1% Consolidated revenue is expected to boost human resources at healthcare facilities to guide midwives, federal, state and local governments are expected to pay N40,000, N30,000 and N10,000 respectively to each midwife for the boosting of maternal care services and this has suffered several setbacks.
This was disclosed on Thursday by the Coordinator, Africa Health Budget Network of the Community Health and Research Initiative, and Publisher, Health Reporters, Dr Aminu Magashi at a media parley with the theme “Funding Maternal and Child Health: A call to action” which was organised by Development Communications (DevComs) Network in collaboration with Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON).
He said the funds expected to pay the salaries of midwives was allocated in the 2015 budget but was never released to pay them, thereby causing hardship, especially to the expectant mothers, hence the loss of lives.
“Money for each midwife is N40,000 from the federal government, N30,000 from state and local governments are expected to pay N10,000 plus accommodation which will encourage the midwives to stay in rural areas.”
“The money has been allocated in the budget but was not released to pay them. So the midwives cannot do magic as they have responsibilities too. Sometimes the accommodation is not habitable and sometimes not even there.”
He said commitment to tackling maternal mortality and bringing it to zero level has to do with a strong political will and commitment which will start with allocation and quickly followed with release.
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