By our Reporter
UN Women in Nigeria has expressed concern over the low level of male involvement in maternal healthcare across the country, revealing that only 3.4 per cent of Nigerian men accompany their spouses to antenatal and postnatal clinic visits.
The organisation made the disclosure during a training programme held in Makurdi, Benue State, aimed at promoting male participation in antenatal care (ANC), postnatal care (PNC), and prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services.
Speaking through the Acting Deputy Representative, Mrs Patience Ekeoba, the UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms Beatrice Eyong, said recent findings highlighted poor male participation in maternal healthcare activities.
According to her, “Physical presence and active participation of men remain critically low. Evidence shows only 3.4 per cent of men attend clinic visits with their spouses, while overall male partner involvement stands at 13.8 per cent. Only 3.3 per cent attend more than two visits, and the average Male Involvement Index is 19.8 per cent.”
Eyong attributed the low participation to harmful cultural beliefs, stigma, misinformation, and inadequate family support systems, warning that the situation continues to negatively affect the health and wellbeing of women and children.
She stressed the need for stronger advocacy and community engagement to encourage men to play more active roles in maternal and child healthcare.
According to her, improving male involvement would enhance support for pregnant women, promote better health outcomes, and strengthen family wellbeing across communities.
