The Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has unveiled the Rural Emergency Service and Maternal Transportation (RESMAT) initiative to reduce maternal deaths among 1.7 million pregnant women in rural Nigeria.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Adejoke Dada of the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) announced the programme’s rollout in January 2025 across 15 states, including Ekiti.
The initiative aims to provide timely, affordable healthcare and emergency transportation for pregnant women and children under five.
Dr Prosper Ahworegba, a NEMSAS resource person, highlighted the alarming maternal mortality rate in Nigeria, which stands at 576–615 deaths per 100,000 live births compared to just seven in the UK.
He attributed the high rates to limited healthcare access and inadequate transportation in rural areas.
Under the scheme, the World Bank will supply ambulances to designated wards, with a token fee required for sustainability.
Each ambulance is designed to serve 10,000 people, ensuring prompt transfer of patients to nearby healthcare centres.
Ekiti State PHCDA Executive Secretary, Dr Ayodele Seluwa, emphasized the initiative’s potential to reduce maternal and infant mortality by addressing critical transportation challenges and improving access to care.
Community involvement will be integral, with local provision of contact information for immediate access to ambulance services, ensuring effective utilization of the programme.
