Nigeria new born baby

Congratulations on the new addition to your family!

Here are some interesting facts about newborn babies in Nigeria:

1. Birth rate: Nigeria has one of the highest birth rates in the world, with an average of 44.4 births per 1,000 population per year (2020 estimates).
2. Infant mortality rate: Unfortunately, Nigeria has a high infant mortality rate, with an estimated 64 deaths per 1,000 live births (2020 estimates).
3. Newborn care: In Nigeria, many newborns do not receive essential care, such as breastfeeding, vitamin K injections, and eye ointment, which can increase the risk of infections and other complications.
4. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is not always common in Nigeria, with only about 30% of mothers exclusively breastfeeding their babies in the first six months (2018 survey).
5. Vaccination: Nigeria has made progress in vaccinating newborns against diseases like measles, polio, and tetanus, but there is still a need for improvement, especially in rural areas.
6. Newborn screening: Newborn screening tests are not widely available in Nigeria, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of conditions like congenital hypothyroidism and sickle cell disease.
7. Healthcare access: Many newborns in Nigeria do not have access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural areas, which can increase the risk of complications and mortality.
8. Traditional practices: In some parts of Nigeria, traditional practices, such as using herbs or other unproven remedies, may be used to treat newborns, which can be harmful and even life-threatening.
9. Nutrition: Malnutrition is a significant problem in Nigeria, and newborns are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition, which can impact their growth and development.
10. Support: There are many organizations and initiatives in Nigeria working to improve newborn care, including the Nigerian National Primary Health Care Development Agency, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization.

As a new parent in Nigeria, it's essential to prioritize your baby's health and well-being by:

• Seeking medical care from a qualified healthcare provider
• Breastfeeding your baby exclusively for the first six months
• Ensuring your baby receives essential vaccinations and screenings
• Providing a healthy and nutritious diet
• Avoiding traditional practices that may be harmful
• Seeking support from healthcare professionals and organizations

Remember, every newborn deserves a healthy start in life. Congratulations again on your new addition, and I wish you and your baby all the best!