On the occasion of World Health Day 2025, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has issued a heartfelt appeal for increased investment in maternal and newborn health. Speaking under this year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” the First Lady emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding the lives of mothers and their newborns as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
In a statement released by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady highlighted the alarming reality that preventable complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period continue to claim the lives of countless women and newborns daily. She stated, “No mother should have to risk her life to bring a child into the world, and no newborn should be denied a fair chance at survival. Investing in maternal and newborn health is not only a moral responsibility but also a fundamental cornerstone of sustainable development.”
The First Lady also extended her gratitude to health workers across the nation, acknowledging their tireless efforts and sacrifices in improving healthcare outcomes. She called on governments, healthcare providers, and communities to work collaboratively to ensure access to quality healthcare services for all women and children.
World Health Day 2025 marks the beginning of a year-long campaign aimed at addressing gaps in maternal and newborn survival. The campaign seeks to raise awareness, advocate for effective investments, and encourage collective action to support parents and healthcare professionals. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 300,000 women lose their lives annually due to pregnancy or childbirth-related complications, while over 2 million babies die within their first month of life. These preventable tragedies underscore the urgent need for action.
The First Lady concluded her message with a call to action: “Let us all strive to create a world where mothers can safely give birth and children can live healthy lives to reach their full potential. Together, we can ensure hopeful futures for generations to come.”