Why is Maternal Death Still Increasing in Lagos?

Despite being one of Nigeria’s most advanced and resourceful states, Lagos continues to struggle with high maternal death rates. The numbers are grim: a recent study recorded 745 maternal deaths per 100,000 births, a statistic that reflects a deeper crisis in maternal healthcare delivery.

At the heart of the issue, experts say, are persistent barriers that stop women from accessing professional medical care when it matters most.

Poor access, late decisions

Many maternal deaths in Lagos could have been prevented if help had arrived sooner. But often, the decision to seek medical attention is delayed. 

Dr. Adedoyin Ogunyemi, one of the experts at a recent Lagos policy dialogue, described the situation as a “layered tragedy.” Pregnant women and their families often fail to recognize early warning signs or underestimate the severity of a medical emergency. 

Cultural norms and spiritual beliefs further complicate decision-making some still believe a first child should be delivered at home, or that maternal deaths are simply “God’s will.”

Dr. Ogunyemi added that many families also rely on traditional herbs or faith-based care, only turning to hospitals when it’s already too late.

When there’s no transport, hope dies too

Even when the decision is made to get medical help, the journey to the hospital can be deadly. Poor road conditions and lack of transportation in many communities delay or even prevent access to healthcare altogether.

In emergency situations, every minute counts. Yet many pregnant women face long waits for vehicles, inaccessible roads, or unaffordable transport fares.

Money and the costs of ‘Free’ care

Although childbirth is officially meant to be free in Lagos public hospitals, Prof. Bosede Afolabi, who coordinates a project focused on maternal deaths, argued that the reality is different. “We need to ensure childbirth is totally and truly free,” she said. 

Women still face unexpected expenses, buying blood, paying for referrals, or dealing with hidden bills, all of which can cause delays or complete avoidance of hospital care.

Financial constraints, coupled with the fear of mistreatment or neglect in public health facilities, discourage many from going to the hospital. “We must address the poor attitude of some health workers,” Afolabi added, pointing to a need for systemic change in how patients are received and treated.

The health system that’s losing its best hands

Another major concern is the mass exodus of trained medical professionals, the “Japa” syndrome. 

With many skilled doctors and nurses relocating abroad in search of better pay and work environments, Lagos is left with fewer professionals to manage a growing population. 

Afolabi called on the government to invest in retaining its medical workforce through competitive salaries and better incentives.

Preventable causes, repeated losses

Experts also highlighted that many of the causes of maternal death in Lagos are preventable. Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, unsafe abortions, heavy bleeding, and ruptured uterus remain top contributors. 

Dr. Adeyemi Okunnowo emphasized that these complications can often be managed with timely and professional intervention—yet Lagos continues to lose mothers due to a lack of timely care.

What needs to change?

The solution, experts agree, lies in removing barriers to professional care. This includes:

• Making hospitals more accessible and affordable
  
• Educating women and communities on the risks of home births and the importance of skilled birth attendants
  
• Strengthening transportation systems, especially in hard-to-reach areas
  
• Training and retaining more healthcare workers
  
• Encouraging family planning and reducing teenage pregnancies
  

There is hope. The Lagos State government has shown commitment by supporting health-related initiatives like the LVASA-SRS project and engaging with multiple stakeholders, including the House of Assembly, academic institutions, and international partners. But there’s still a long way to go.

Until systemic issues from transport to tradition are addressed, maternal death will remain a tragic, persistent reality in Lagos. And as Prof. Afolabi rightly put it, “If we truly value women, we will make sure they don’t die while giving life.”