Professor Lucy O. Idoko has delivered the first valedictory lecture titled "Accelerating the Improvement of Maternal Health in Nigeria," as she retires from Bingham University after an illustrious career spanning over four decades across several universities and organizations. 

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof. Andrew Haruna, highlighted the significance of inaugural and valedictory lectures in a university while speaking at the event. He emphasized that every professor should deliver an inaugural lecture upon attaining the rank, underscoring its importance in academia.

Prof. Haruna expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Prof. Idoko for her unwavering dedication and remarkable contributions to Bingham University throughout her career. As she retires, he commended her legacy of excellence and service. He also extended his gratitude to her spouse, Prof. John Idoko, for his steadfast support and guidance, which played a vital role in her professional journey.

Delivering his remarks at the event, the Vice Chancellor Professor Haruna Kuje Ayuba, commended Prof. Idoko for her remarkable career spanning nearly four decades. He highlighted her extensive work in reproductive health, policy advocacy, and education, which has significantly impacted national and international healthcare policies.

He stated that the theme "Accelerating the Improvement in Maternal Health in Nigeria," accentuated Prof. Idoko’s dedication to improving women's health, particularly in resource-poor communities. Her research and expertise have influenced both academic scholarship and policy frameworks, shaping Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.

“Prof. Idoko’s service at Bingham University has been equally impactful. She has served in various leadership roles, including Acting Dean of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, immediate past Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, and a member of the 6th Bingham University Governing Council. She has mentored numerous students and staff members, leaving a lasting legacy in both academia and public health”.

Prof. Ayuba while expressing gratitude for her years of service, praised her commitment, resilience, and leadership, while also extending appreciation to her husband, Prof. John Idoko, for his unwavering support throughout her career.

In her valedictory lecture, Prof. Idoko highlighted that Nigeria remains one of the most dangerous places for childbirth, with a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births, the highest in the world. She emphasized that Nigeria accounts for a staggering 28.5% of global maternal deaths, surpassing countries like India, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia.

The lecture outlined critical factors contributing to poor maternal health, including poverty, lack of access to quality healthcare services, adolescent childbearing, low contraceptive use, and insecurity. Prof. Idoko pointed out that only 20% of Nigeria’s 30,000 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) are fully functional, with inadequate staffing and essential medical supplies.

She acknowledged recent government efforts, including the launch of the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Innovative Initiative (MAMII), which aim to reduce maternal deaths by 30% and increase skilled attendance at birth by 60% in high-risk local government areas. However, she cautioned that achieving these targets requires sustained political commitment, improved healthcare financing, and a multisectoral approach to address the social determinants of maternal health.

Prof. Idoko called for increased investment in family planning services, improved education for adolescent girls, and the strengthening of PHCs to ensure safer childbirth experiences. She stressed that maternal health is not just a medical issue but a national development concern that demands urgent and holistic action.

Her lecture concluded with a call to action: "No woman should die giving life. We must commit to ensuring safe motherhood as a fundamental human right."

Prof. Idoko expressed her gratitude to the Council members, Principal Officers, Senate, and the university community for their support throughout her time at the university.

The highlight of the lecture was the presentation of an award plaque to Prof. Lucy Idoko and the official handing over of the documented lecture to the Vice-Chancellor.

In Attendance at the lecture Principal Officers, Senate and Management members and  invited guests.