Lagos Residents Decry Non-Implementation of Free Antenatal, Delivery Services

Residents of Lagos have expressed their disappointment over the non-implementation of the state government’s free antenatal and child delivery services at some General Hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs).

The issue was brought to light in a recent article by Vanguard News, published on March 4, 2024.

Despite the announcement by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during a media chat on Feb. 22, 2024, of sweeping interventions to reduce the effects of the current economic hardship on its citizens, residents claim that the free services are not being provided.

The governor had promised a free child delivery program for expectant mothers in all state-owned General Hospitals and special maternity centers.

However, residents like Mrs. Funmilayo Olatunji, a trader who delivered at Ikorodu Health Centre, Ita-Elewa, reported that delivery was not free at the center.

Similarly, Mr. Michael Adebiyi, whose wife delivered at Ikorodu General Hospital, Ebute, said he spent over N250,000 for a caesarean section delivery and consumables at the hospital.

A healthcare worker, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told Vanguard News that many pregnant women still pay out-of-pocket for antenatal and delivery services at many government-owned facilities.

They suggested that the program requires improved planning, compliance monitoring, and management for sustainability.

The economic situation of the country, which has led to increased costs of products, especially medicines and healthcare services, is said to be worsening the plight of couples with unplanned pregnancies.

The non-implementation of the free antenatal and child delivery services in Lagos is a significant concern for its residents, who are not receiving the promised support from the government.

The issue highlights the need for improved planning, monitoring, and management of such programs to ensure they are truly benefiting the citizens.