The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) recently held a specialized training program for traditional birth attendants in Abia State. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of pregnancy and labor in rural areas where professional medical facilities are often unreachable.
Chief Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the NDDC, emphasized that these caregivers serve a vital purpose in their local communities. Represented by Mrs. Dare Olokor Kwame, Ogbuku noted that the commission intends to improve the skills of these attendants regarding postpartum care, financial planning, and safe birthing methods rather than replacing them. More than 150 participants from the Abia South Senatorial District took part in the sessions, which highlighted evidence-based techniques and effective collaboration with the broader healthcare system.
Dr. Jude Okpani, who served as a guest lecturer, highlighted the ongoing importance of traditional caregivers in areas lacking hospitals. He stressed that success in childbirth relies heavily on access to antenatal guidance and proper preparation. The curriculum included hands-on training on hygiene, recognizing complications, and managing emergency logistics such as transport and supplies. The program encourages these attendants to act as mentors, ensuring that safe practices are shared across their respective communities.
