Nigeria : severe anemia, a challenge for women’s maternity

Severe anemia, linked to malnutrition, is one of the major public health problems in Nigeria. In Pulka, Première Urgence Internationale (PUI) works in particular to meet the health needs of women. Among those helped is Fadimatu Yusuf, a young woman of 22, whose story illustrates the impact of our interventions.

Effective medical coordination

Married at the age of 15, Fadimatu is now the mother of six children. Due to her precarious living conditions, she has suffered from repeated medical complications. When she began to feel extreme fatigue and generalized weakness, she went to the PHCC Zulum health center, supported by PUI.

On site, tests revealed severe anemia requiring urgent intervention. Thanks to the support of Première Urgence Internationale teams, Fadimatu was quickly transferred to the state’s specialized hospital for a blood transfusion. “Everything was organized with care and efficiency”, she confides.

Waiting area for medical care (octobre 2024)

Swift treatment

After the transfusion, Fadimatu’s condition improved considerably. “I felt revitalized, as if life had returned to my body”, she explains. When she returned home, she received full support, including dietary advice and follow-up appointments.

“I was touched by the kindness of the staff,” she says. As a sign of her gratitude, Fadimatu even named her last child after the midwife who accompanied her during this period.

Première Urgence Internationale health staff

Persistent difficulties in maternal health

Factors contributing to anemia and other maternal health problems in these communities include poor nutrition, limited access to health services, and precarious hygiene conditions. Première Urgence Internationale strives to respond to these challenges by offering accessible and free healthcare, and by raising awareness among local populations of the importance of health and nutrition.

Learn more about our mission in Nigeria. 

Première Urgence Internationale’s intervention in Pulka is made possible thanks to the support of ECHO.