By Abasi Ita
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Cross River State Government to enact a law to regulate maternity homes operated by churches and traditional birth attendants, warning that unregulated practices are putting mothers and children at risk.
Speaking at a town hall meeting in Biase, where the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) presented its research findings, Biase Chapter CAN Chairman Rev. Victor Okon said that unlicensed maternity centres have become a major contributor to preventable maternal and child deaths.
Rev. Okon condemned pastors who discourage members from seeking medical care in government hospitals or from accepting medically recommended caesarean sections, describing such teachings as unsafe and contrary to Christian principles.
Addressing the forum, CHAMPS Community Engagement Lead and former Cross River State Health Commissioner, Prof. Angela Oyo Ita, who represented University of Calabar Vice Chancellor Prof. Florence Obi, explained that the meeting was convened to share research findings, gather feedback from the community, and develop practical strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce under-five deaths.
She stressed that cooperation between government agencies, health professionals, and community leaders is vital to addressing the challenge.
Also speaking, the Paramount Ruler of Biase, His Royal Highness Onun Apostle Nicholas Odim, commended CHAMPS for its commitment to tackling maternal and child mortality and pledged the support of traditional institutions for the initiative.
In a telephone interview, Chairman of Biase Local Government, Hon. Edadi Enyong, praised CHAMPS for equipping the Cottage Hospital, Akpet, with an ultrasound machine and providing Mama Kits and other logistics to health centres across the area.
Edadi noted that the support for pregnant women had boosted confidence in public health facilities and improved service delivery, adding that his administration was ready to deepen collaboration with CHAMPS and other partners.
In his remarks, Dr. Bassey Etim, who represented the Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, highlighted ongoing upgrades of facilities, recruitment of additional staff, and improved funding for training.
Dr. Etim added that the government is also training traditional birth attendants and linking them with referral systems, particularly in remote communities where their services remain essential.
Wrapping up the meeting, Dr. Edward Odey presented an overview of CHAMPS’ research, noting that the session was aimed at refining response strategies and encouraging wider use of government health services as a crucial step toward reducing maternal and child mortality in Cross River State.