Nigeria's maternal and neonatal health crisis is severe, with extremely high mortality rates placing the nation among the top globally regarding risks of death during parturition, starkly contrasting with developed nations and demanding urgent investment in health systems. Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality ratios (MMR) in the world and the highest absolute number of maternal deaths, with nearly 1,000 deaths per 100,000 live births in recent estimates, and accounts for over a quarter of global maternal deaths. High-income countries like the UK, USA and Canada have rates of 8-18 per 100,000, while Nigeria's rate (around 993-1,047 per 100,000 in recent years) is drastically higher, meaning a woman in Nigeria faces a 1 in 19 lifetime risk of maternal death compared to 1 in 4,900 in developed nations. It ranks among the worst in Africa, with MMR higher than most, but below South Sudan (~1,223) and Chad (~1,063). Reference: Trends in maternal mortality 2000 to 2023: estimates by WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, World Bank Group and UNDESA/Population Division
We empower healthcare providers with life-saving skills for obstetric and neonatal emergencies, equipping doctors, nurses, midwives, and community health workers with evidence-based tools to save the lives of mothers and newborns.
Comprehensive, simulation-based training for managing obstetric emergencies, delivered in partnership with the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Learn more →Foundational training designed for all members of the maternity care team, including practitioners in rural and low-resource settings.
Learn more →Workshops, continuing professional development, mentorship, and outreach programs that strengthen Nigeria’s maternal health systems.
SANMINIT continues to expand its reach through training centers, local instructors, and cross-border partnerships focused on better outcomes for mothers and babies.
SANMINIT is supported by dedicated organizations and individuals whose contributions help strengthen maternity care and save the lives of mothers and newborns across Nigeria.
Whether you are a healthcare professional, institution, donor, or volunteer, you can support our work to save the lives of mothers and newborns.
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