By: Gloria Abutu
In commemoration of this year’s Safe Motherhood Day, the Permanent Secretary of the Adamawa State Ministry of Health and Human Services, Mr. Zirra Mathias Bubanani, has called for renewed commitment from all stakeholders to promote maternal health, family planning, and reproductive health services across the state.
Speaking during an engagement with Media Advocates on Family Planning, Bubanani emphasized the importance of prioritizing women’s health, stating,
“No woman should die while giving life.”
He described Safe Motherhood Day as
“a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to protect our mothers and women of childbearing age.”
According to him, the day presents an opportunity to raise awareness, evaluate strategies, and intensify actions toward safe pregnancies, skilled deliveries, quality postnatal care, and access to comprehensive reproductive health education.
Despite global efforts, preventable maternal deaths remain prevalent, particularly in developing regions.
“This is why we must all—governments, communities, development partners, health professionals, and civil society—continue to work hand-in-hand to strengthen maternal health services and support systems that ensure no woman is left behind,” he added.
Bubanani also reiterated the state government’s commitment to building healthier communities, noting ongoing initiatives such as routine vaccinations, timely immunization for children, bi-monthly distribution of family planning commodities, and community outreaches to hard-to-reach areas in collaboration with development partners.
He extended appreciation to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his leadership and unwavering support for the health sector.
“His visionary leadership has created an enabling environment where health programs can thrive,” Bubanani said.
The Permanent Secretary further acknowledged the relentless efforts of healthcare workers across the state, including midwives, nurses, doctors, and community health workers, commending their resilience and dedication.
“We say thank you for your compassion and unshakable commitment to saving lives,” he declared.
He also praised development partners, NGOs, and civil society organizations for their contributions.
Bubanani lauded their technical, financial, and operational support, which he said has been instrumental in propelling Adamawa toward Universal Health Coverage and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.
The Permanent Secretary called on all stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitment.
“Let us continue to collaborate, innovate, and advocate for improved policies, increased funding, skilled birth attendance, emergency obstetric care, and safe delivery environments across Adamawa State and Nigeria at large,” he urged.
“Together, we can ensure that motherhood is a time of joy, not danger.”
