Rotimi Amaechi, the presidential running mate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has revealed that he paid pregnant women N10,000 each for attending antenatal care during his tenure as governor of Rivers State, a policy aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality in the state. Speaking at the ‘Her Health, Her Power Conference Africa 2026’ in Abuja on Tuesday, Amaechi explained that the initiative was part of broader efforts to improve women’s health amid Rivers State’s alarming ranking as second-highest in maternal-child mortality during his time in office. He served as governor from October 26, 2007, to May 29, 2015, after being reinstated by the Supreme Court following a legal battle.
Amaechi emphasized that addressing women’s health cannot be separated from economic empowerment, especially in Nigeria’s context where women make up 40 percent of the farming workforce. He argued that political leaders must prioritize women’s well-being not only through healthcare access but also through economic incentives that encourage participation in health programs. “You certainly cannot make the female look healthier and stronger if the economy is bad,” he stated during his speech, highlighting the interconnectedness of health and financial stability.
To tackle the high maternal mortality rate, Amaechi’s administration established health centres in every village across Rivers State. Each centre employed two doctors and nurses, ensuring basic medical services were accessible even in remote communities. The N10,000 incentive for attending antenatal visits proved highly effective, drawing large numbers of pregnant women to clinics every Friday, many of whom came primarily for the cash reward. While acknowledging that some women attended more for the money than for health reasons, Amaechi maintained that the economic motivation led to better attendance and ultimately improved health outcomes.
He further stressed the importance of education for women, noting that educated women become better leaders and contribute more meaningfully to society. His experience in Rivers State, he said, demonstrated that combining healthcare infrastructure with economic incentives can yield tangible results in public health. The success of this model, according to Amaechi, underscores the need for similar policies across Nigeria to ensure healthier mothers and children nationwide.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with high maternal mortality rates, Amaechi’s approach offers a practical example of how integrating economic support with healthcare delivery can drive positive change. His insights at the conference are expected to influence future discussions on gender-focused development and public health strategies in Africa.
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