By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Ekiti State Government has launched digital health solutions to improve maternal health outcomes in Ado Ekiti, targeting pregnant women and nursing mothers across the state. The initiative, unveiled on Saturday by the Ministry of Health and Human Services, allows women to access care through phone calls and WhatsApp without first visiting health facilities. Officials say the move will bridge access gaps, reduce maternal risks and strengthen quality healthcare delivery statewide.
Ekiti Deploys Digital Health Solutions to Boost Maternal Care
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, announced the initiative during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement meeting in Ado Ekiti.
She explained that pregnant women and nursing mothers can now consult health workers remotely. As a result, they no longer need to visit facilities before receiving guidance.
“With our digital health system, patients can call or send WhatsApp messages to access care,” she said.
According to her, the initiative complements ongoing government investments in healthcare infrastructure. It also strengthens maternal health services at primary, secondary and tertiary levels.
Bridging Distance and Financial Barriers
Gbenga-Igotun noted that some residents avoid medical care due to distance or cost. However, the new system allows them to speak directly with trained health workers.
Health professionals can assess symptoms remotely and offer advice. Where necessary, they refer patients to the nearest facility.
Furthermore, community sensitisation campaigns educate women about the benefits of digital consultations. These efforts have already improved maternal health outcomes in the state.
She urged residents to use government health facilities, which provide qualified personnel and essential drugs.
Stakeholders Push for Strong Governance and Infrastructure
The programme was organised by the Ekiti State Ministry of Health in collaboration with ACIOE Foundation and Nigeria Health Watch.
The Director of ACIOE Foundation, Olukunle Daramola, said similar digital health models in Ekiti, Lagos and Kaduna show strong potential. However, he stressed the need for solid governance structures.
He explained that the Maternal Health Advocacy and Communications project supports state governments through policy advocacy and private sector engagement. The project also promotes evidence-based innovations backed by MSD for Mothers collaborators.
Daramola identified workforce shortages, fragmented maternal data systems and poor connectivity in rural areas as major challenges. Therefore, he called for improved digital infrastructure and better policy integration.
He also recommended scaling proven digital models across primary and secondary facilities. In addition, he urged the government to promote digital literacy among frontline health workers.
Finally, he encouraged the state to sustain digital services through its health insurance reimbursement framework.
