The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Cross River State Government to enact legislation regulating maternity homes operated by churches and traditional birth attendants, warning that unmonitored practices are endangering the lives of mothers and children.

The appeal was made by the Biase Chapter Chairman of CAN, Rev. Victor Okon, during a town hall meeting in Biase, where the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) presented its research findings on maternal and child health.

Rev. Okon expressed concern that unlicensed maternity centres are a major contributor to preventable maternal and infant deaths.

He particularly criticised pastors who discourage pregnant women from seeking care in government hospitals or from accepting medically necessary caesarean sections, describing such actions as unsafe and contrary to Christian values.

Representing the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi, CHAMPS Community Engagement Lead and former Commissioner for Health, Prof. Angela Oyo-Ita, explained that the forum was organised to share data, gather community input, and design practical strategies to reduce maternal and under-five mortality rates.

She emphasised the need for collaboration between government, health professionals, and community leaders to improve pregnancy outcomes.

The Paramount Ruler of Biase, HRH Onun Apostle Nicholas Odim, applauded CHAMPS for its sustained efforts in tackling maternal and child deaths, pledging traditional institutions’ support for the initiative.

Biase Local Government Chairman, Hon. Edadi Enyong, commended CHAMPS for strengthening local health services, citing the provision of an ultrasound machine at Akpet Cottage Hospital and the distribution of Mama Kits to health centres as interventions that have boosted public confidence in health facilities.

Speaking on behalf of the Director General of the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Bassey Etim highlighted government efforts to upgrade health facilities, recruit more personnel, and expand training opportunities.

He added that traditional birth attendants were being trained and integrated into referral systems, particularly in remote communities where their services remain vital.

CHAMPS representative, Dr. Edward Odey, closed the meeting by stressing that wider reliance on government health services is crucial to reducing maternal and child mortality across Cross River State. (The Guardian)