Babatunji Wusu –
Some Lagos citizens have expressed disapproval of the state government’s failure to introduce free prenatal and child birth services at particular General Hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centers.
During a media briefing on February 22, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu outlined initiatives to lessen economic hardship.
Regarding health, Sanwo-Olu reinstated the free child delivery program for pregnant mothers at all general hospitals and specialty maternity centers owned by the state.
The governor declared that the state would cover the cost of childbirth, including cesarean sections, and that it would also lower the cost of some medications, like those for high blood pressure.
In contrast, Lagos residents gave their opinions in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday, emphasizing that although there had been claims of free prenatal and child delivery services, they had to pay for each hospital service, indicating that promises had not been fulfilled.
A trader who delivered at Ikorodu Health Centre, Ita-Elewa, Funmilayo Olatunji, said delivery wasn’t free.
“I had a normal delivery at the centre in February 2024. We paid N8,000 for child delivery fees, N10,500 for vaginal tear, and a carton of Maltina.
“I’m surprised to hear that the child delivery service was meant to be free at government facilities because the reverse was my experience,” she said.
Michael Adebiyi reported spending over N250,000 on a caesarean section delivery and consumables at Ikorodu General Hospital, Ebute, where his wife gave birth.
“My wife gave birth in February, and we paid for everything needed for the delivery, from blood to caesarean section charges.
“Nothing was free; in fact, I still owe some people because I had to run around to source for the money.
“I was happy when I heard last year that expectant mothers would enjoy free child delivery services at government health facilities as part of relief measures to ease the economic burden on families.
“The government should put mechanism in place to ensure that policies made truly impact on the lives of citizens,” he said.
Also, Stella Nwosu, a hairstylist, opted for a traditional medical centre for antenatal and child delivery due to high service fees.
“Sometimes in September, I went to Amuwo-Odofin General Hospital to register for antenatal service and was told to pay ₦30,000.
“We couldn’t afford it because every childcare item is expensive, and to feed is even a challenge. My mother-in-law took me to a traditional birth attendant, and I delivered my baby there,” she said.
A healthcare worker, speaking anonymously, revealed to NAN that numerous pregnant women incur out-of-pocket expenses for antenatal and delivery services at government-owned facilities, highlighting the need for enhanced planning, compliance monitoring, and management to sustain the program.
She underscored that the country’s economic situation, resulting in heightened costs of products and healthcare services, would exacerbate the challenges faced by couples with unplanned pregnancies.
She urged couples to make informed decisions, emphasizing that childcare entails a lifelong socio-economic commitment beyond access to free antenatal and child delivery services.
