LASG Pioneers 'Men in Maternity' Program, Fostering Father Involvement in Maternal Health

The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has initiated a significant stride toward inclusive maternal and child health with the successful hosting of the inaugural Male Engagement Meeting under the pioneering "Men in Maternity" Pilot Programme. This groundbreaking initiative marks a deliberate effort by the state government to deepen and formalize the involvement of expectant fathers in maternal, newborn, and child health care throughout Lagos.

​​The session, held at the Ikosi Primary Health Centre (PHC), brought together expectant fathers who demonstrated an enthusiastic commitment to understanding their critical roles. The engagement fostered open, vibrant discussions and practical demonstrations focused on the intricacies of pregnancy, the process of childbirth, essential postpartum care, and modern family planning methods, all designed to build empathy and shared responsibility.

​A major highlight that drew significant attention was the introduction of the Empathy Belly pregnancy simulator. This immersive exercise allowed the men to experience the physical sensations and discomforts associated with carrying a child, an exercise that profoundly fostered a deeper appreciation and respect for the maternal journey and the partner’s experience.

​Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, mni, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, commended the expectant fathers for their openness and eagerness to learn. He praised the initiative as a reflection of Lagos State’s continuous drive for innovation and excellence in maternal health, noting that the men's positive reactions demonstrated a deep insight into the experiences their partners navigate.

As part of the comprehensive program, participants were equipped with the Father-Focused Family Planning and Postnatal Care Pamphlet, a resource designed to empower men with essential knowledge. The successful staging of this pilot, which received support from UNFPA and various health service directors, signals the LSPHCB’s commitment to fostering a new movement that actively recognizes fathers as vital, informed partners in the health and well-being of the family unit.