Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Chairman of the 10th Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary), has called for a strengthened multisectoral approach at the official launch of the SPEED Project Stillbirths Dashboard by the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health to improve visibility and accessibility to Stillbirths data for informed decision-making and evidence-based health interventions in Nigeria.
Senator Banigo highlights the importance of data collection across all levels of healthcare, from primary health centres to secondary and tertiary hospitals. She stressed the need for more robust oversight, describing her approach to legislative oversight as one of direct engagement. “I no longer want institutions presenting me with mere pieces of paper. I will go to these facilities and ask the necessary questions myself to ensure we are getting accurate, useful data for policy-making,” she stated.
This hands-on approach underscores Senator Banigo’s commitment to ensuring that data-driven decisions result in real improvements in maternal and newborn care. Senator banigo advocates for a multisectoral approach to addressing stillbirths, one that not only involves healthcare institutions but also engages communities at the grassroots level. “This advocacy must be taken to all levels, including communities, where much of this underreporting occurs. Many stillbirths are not captured because they happen at home or through unskilled birth attendants.”
By strengthening community health committees and encouraging community participation in health reporting, Senator Banigo emphasized the need for greater awareness and advocacy to reduce stillbirths. “Creating awareness at all levels—starting from the community—is essential. We must make sure that every birth is reported and that the necessary preventive measures are taken to ensure that our babies are born healthy and survive to fulfil their destinies.”
In her closing remarks, Senator Banigo acknowledged the pivotal role the SPEED project and its stillbirth dashboard will play in shaping Nigeria’s health policies in the years ahead. Her commitment to legislative oversight and accountability was clear with heartfelt congratulations to the entire IHVN team, applauding their dedication and hard work in bringing this project to fruition. “I will ensure that this agency remains accountable and that the data it generates translates into real, impactful action.”
Add Comment