LASG, TBAs strengthen referral system to prevent maternal, newborn deaths

The Lagos State Government, through the Health District III, on Thursday, called for stronger collaboration between Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) and healthcare workers to improve maternal and newborn outcomes across the metropolis.

Speaking at the stakeholders’ meeting held at the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Secretariat,Ibeju, the Permanent Secretary, Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, noted a decline in TBA services from January to July 2026 compared with year 2025, saying the new antenatal registrations dropped by 31.9% from 1,594 to 1,085 and the old registrations fell from 3,152 to 1,901, while TBA deliveries declined by 36% from 1,308 to 837.

Dr. Adeleke said the meeting was to determine if more women were accessing health facilities or avoiding care and also acknowledged the trust women have in TBAs while urging them to promptly refer cases with danger signs such as heavy bleeding, prolonged labour, high blood pressure, convulsion among others.

She also charged health workers to receive referrals properly and maintain communication with TBAs while being optimistic that the collaboration will help prevent avoidable maternal and newborn deaths in Lagos communities.

According to her, The State Government is partnering with Federal Government and the NURTW on MAAMI programme, which ensures that women in labour are transported to health facilities without delay. Also, note the LASAMBUS service is available 24 hours daily, just call 112.`I want us to always bear in mind that behind every referral is a woman, a baby and a family.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, Hon. Sesan Olowa, expressed appreciation to the government for continuous support to TBAs in order to ensure quality service delivery at all time.

He also urged TBAs to promptly refer cases beyond their scope and to do their utmost best to always prevent maternal and child mortality.