Today, I join the global community in celebrating the dedication, courage, and invaluable contributions of midwives, those quiet pillars of strength who stand at the very beginning of life’s journey.
Midwives are far more than skilled birth attendants; they are trusted caregivers, advocates, and lifelines for women, newborns, and families. From prenatal care to safe delivery and postnatal support, they provide not only medical expertise but also compassion, reassurance, and dignity to women at one of the most critical moments of their lives.
In many communities across Nigeria, midwives remain the first, and sometimes only; point of care for expectant mothers. Their work is central to reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, strengthening primary healthcare systems, and safeguarding the health and future of our nation.
This year’s commemoration is particularly significant as it aligns with the bold national priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places women, children, and families at the centre of national development.
Through the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions – 774 (RH-SII-774), a nationwide delivery platform operating across all 774 Local Government Areas, the Federal Government is scaling integrated, community-level interventions that strengthen maternal health systems, empower frontline health workers, and expand access to quality care for women and families.
This transformative framework reinforces the critical role of midwives as indispensable actors within a broader ecosystem of care, protection, and social investment, ensuring that no woman is left behind.
Furthermore, the Presidential Declaration of 2026 as the Year of Families and Social Development underscores our collective commitment to building resilient families as the foundation of national progress. At the heart of this vision are midwives; whose daily service ensures safe motherhood, healthy children, and stronger family units.
As a Ministry, we reaffirm that investing in midwifery is investing in life itself. It is an investment in dignity, in equity, and in the future of Nigeria.
On this important day, I commend all midwives across Nigeria for their tireless service, professionalism, and unwavering commitment. Your work saves lives, builds hope, and sustains communities.
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development remains resolute in advancing policies and programmes that support midwives, strengthen healthcare delivery, and ensure that no woman is left behind, no matter where she lives.
Happy International Day of the Midwife.
Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi
Honourable Minister
Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development
