Experts Warn Millions of Pregnant Women Could Miss Lifesaving Supplements

ABUJA, Nigeria — Health experts have raised concerns that millions of pregnant women in Nigeria may be unable to access lifesaving Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS), citing funding constraints, affordability challenges, and persistent supply chain issues that threaten maternal and child health outcomes. The warning comes amid growing efforts by public health stakeholders to improve access to essential nutritional interventions for pregnant women, particularly in low-income and vulnerable communities where malnutrition remains a major concern. According to health professionals, MMS contains a combination of essential vitamins and minerals required during pregnancy to support maternal health, reduce complications, and promote healthy fetal development. They noted that inadequate access to these supplements increases the risk of maternal anaemia, low birth weight, premature delivery, and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. Experts expressed concern that financial limitations affecting health programmes could significantly reduce the availability of MMS across healthcare facilities. They warned that without sustainable funding mechanisms, many women may be deprived of nutritional support that has been shown to improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce preventable health risks. They also highlighted affordability as a major obstacle, particularly for women living in rural and economically disadvantaged communities. Rising living costs and healthcare expenses, they said, have made it increasingly difficult for many families to access essential maternal health services and nutritional products. Supply chain challenges were identified as another critical factor affecting access to the supplements. Health advocates noted that disruptions in procurement, distribution, and storage systems can lead to shortages in clinics and primary healthcare centres, limiting availability even when demand remains high. Public health experts called on government agencies, development partners, and donor organisations to prioritise maternal nutrition programmes and ensure adequate funding for the procurement and distribution of MMS. They argued that investing in maternal health not only saves lives but also contributes to improved child survival rates and long-term national development. The stakeholders further urged policymakers to integrate micronutrient supplementation more effectively into existing maternal and child healthcare programmes, ensuring that pregnant women receive comprehensive nutritional support throughout pregnancy. Nigeria continues to face significant maternal health challenges, with experts stressing that improved nutrition remains one of the most cost-effective interventions for reducing maternal and infant mortality. They warned that failure to address current funding and supply gaps could undermine progress made in recent years toward improving maternal healthcare outcomes. As calls for action intensify, health advocates maintain that ensuring universal access to Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation should remain a priority within national healthcare planning, particularly as the country works to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths and strengthen overall public health resilience.