Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board has taken a decisive step toward transforming family participation in maternal and child health with the successful launch of its first Male Engagement Meeting under the Men in Maternity Pilot Programme. The initiative, which held its introductory session at Ikosi Primary Health Centre, represents a growing shift in public health thinking—one that places fathers at the centre of maternal well-being and newborn care, rather than treating them as observers on the sidelines.
During the session, expectant fathers gathered to explore a range of issues that directly influence outcomes during pregnancy, childbirth and the early months of a child’s life. The men participated in discussions that covered the emotional and physical journey of pregnancy, the importance of shared responsibility before and after delivery, and the role of supportive partners in reducing maternal stress and improving long-term health. Health officials guiding the session emphasised that father involvement is not merely desirable but essential, particularly in communities where maternal health indicators still highlight gaps that family engagement can help close.
The tone of the event was both welcoming and serious, as participants were encouraged to speak openly about their fears, expectations and misconceptions regarding childbirth and postpartum care. Facilitators say this type of dialogue is crucial in breaking down cultural and social barriers that often discourage men from playing active roles in family planning or maternal support. Many of the attending fathers expressed appreciation for the opportunity, saying the session expanded their understanding of the physical and psychological realities that women navigate throughout pregnancy.
One of the defining moments of the meeting came with the introduction of the Empathy Belly pregnancy simulator, a teaching tool that allows users to feel a range of pregnancy-related sensations. As the men strapped on the suit, they experienced simulated weight, pressure, discomfort and movement, prompting reactions ranging from surprise to deep reflection. According to health educators involved in the programme, the exercise is intended to help men gain a more realistic awareness of the strain their partners endure daily. Several participants acknowledged afterwards that the experience shifted their perception of pregnancy from a distant concept to a vivid, lived reality, making them more emotionally prepared to provide practical support at home.
The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, praised the men who participated for their willingness to engage. He said their openness demonstrated a growing recognition across Lagos communities that maternal health is a shared responsibility. He noted that the state is committed to strengthening maternal and newborn health systems through innovative strategies, better collaboration among health stakeholders and a more inclusive approach that brings men into conversations traditionally restricted to women. According to him, the reactions observed during the meeting reflected deep awareness and empathy, qualities he said are instrumental in improving family dynamics and health outcomes.
Dr Mustafa also acknowledged the institutional and international partners that made the programme’s first outing possible. He extended appreciation to the United Nations Population Fund for its technical support, the Acting Director of Medical Services and Disease Control, Dr Veronica Iwayemi, and the Director of Nursing Services, Mrs Olasumbo Oyesanya. He further commended the Reproductive Health and Family Planning team of the state’s Primary Health Care Board and the local government area facilitators, Chief Nursing Officers Aderemi Ashiru and Oluwakemi Faluyi, describing their contributions as essential to the strengthening of the state’s reproductive health framework. According to him, the programme’s success illustrates what can be achieved through coordinated expertise, shared vision and sustained advocacy.
As part of the day’s activities, participants were given copies of the Father-Focused Family Planning and Postnatal Care Pamphlet, a resource designed specifically to strengthen male understanding of how to support their partners before and after childbirth. The content covers topics such as joint decision-making in family planning, emotional support during postpartum recovery and the early developmental needs of infants. The material sparked lively discussions among attendees, many of whom noted that social pressures, limited knowledge and cultural ideas about masculinity often prevent men from engaging meaningfully during their partner’s pregnancy. Facilitators said the pamphlet will serve as an ongoing guide for expectant fathers as they prepare for the arrival of their children.
The launch of the Men in Maternity initiative marks a significant moment in Lagos State’s broader maternal health strategy. Public health experts have long argued that strengthening father involvement can reduce complications, improve maternal mental health, increase infant survival rates and foster stronger family bonds. The programme’s organisers describe it not only as a health intervention but as a cultural shift aimed at promoting equity within the household and expanding the definition of responsible fatherhood.
Officials say the next steps will involve expanding the pilot programme to more primary health centres across the state, gathering data from participants and tailoring future sessions to address the unique needs and challenges of different communities. Health workers also indicated that they plan to recruit more men through outreach, workplace sensitisation and collaboration with community leaders, noting that sustainable change requires widespread participation.
The inaugural meeting has already generated strong feedback from both health professionals and participants, many of whom say they feel more confident, informed and emotionally prepared to support their partners. For the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, this level of engagement signals a promising start to what they hope will become a long-term, statewide movement grounded in compassion, shared responsibility and improved maternal and child health.
By opening a space for honest conversation, empathy-building exercises and practical learning, Lagos has begun rewriting the narrative of family involvement in maternity care. Officials say the initiative is ultimately about strengthening families, enhancing maternal well-being and ensuring that children are welcomed into homes where both parents understand their shared role from the very beginning.
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