The 5th Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey (MICS-5), conducted in Nigeria in 2016/2017, shows a newborn mortality rate of 37 deaths per 1000 births and an under-five mortality rate of 120 deaths per 1000 births. At these mortality levels, one in every 15 Nigerian children die before reaching the age of 1 year and one in every eight do not survive to their fifth birthday. According to the Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) report for 2013, Nigeria achieved practically no reduction in Maternal Mortality Rate which is reported at 576 deaths per 100,000 live births. Given that these deaths are preventable, urgent action needs to be taken for Nigeria to reach its Sustainable Development Goals 3, Target 3.1 and 3.2.

In order to contribute in reversing this trend, the Foundation aims to support implementation of evidence-based, innovative, high-quality and sustainable interventions to ensure every mother can experience a healthy pregnancy and childbirth; and every child can thrive to realize their full potential, through its “Healthy Mother, Healthy Child” programme.

The aim of the Foundation’s “Healthy Mother, Healthy Child” is to contribute to reducing the prevalence of under-five and maternal mortality rates in Nigeria.

The key objectives of the Foundation’s “Healthy Mother, Healthy Child” include:

• To reduce the prevalence of under-five and maternal mortality in targeted states.

• To reduce the proportion of women and their new-borns without basic and emergency care by skilled birth attendants in targeted states.

• To improve the capacity of health workers to offer maternal and Child Health services through strengthened health systems in targeted states.