UI Professor Honored for Pioneering Safer Childbirth Initiatives in Nigeria

Professor Nike Bello, head of the WOMAN-2 Trial in Nigeria, has been honored for her pioneering efforts to improve maternal health and make childbirth safer for at-risk mothers.

May 29, 2024 - 14:30

UI Professor Honored for Pioneering Safer Childbirth Initiatives in Nigeria

The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, recently celebrated International #ClinicalTrialsDay by highlighting the remarkable efforts of individuals dedicated to improving maternal health, particularly in at-risk populations. Among the trailblazers recognized was Professor Nike Bello, head of the WOMAN-2 Trial in Nigeria, whose pioneering work aims to make childbirth safer for vulnerable mothers in the country.

The event showcased a 5-minute film titled "Making Childbirth Safer for At-Risk Mothers," part of the Healthier Together series presented by the WHO Foundation and produced by BBC StoryWorks. In the film, Professor Bello discussed her involvement in the WOMAN-2 Trial, a global initiative assessing the effectiveness of tranexamic acid (TXA) in preventing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal mortality, particularly prevalent in Nigeria due to endemic anaemia.

The WOMAN Trial demonstrated TXA's efficacy in treating PPH, prompting the WOMAN-2 Trial to evaluate its preventive potential. Coordinated by the College of Medicine, Nigeria, the WOMAN-2 Trial involved seven hospital study sites across the country, with results set to be published this summer.

Professor Folasade A. Bello, from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, played a crucial role as a local investigator in various PPH clinical trials, including those on TXA and heat-stable carbetocin. Additionally, she serves on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)’s Clinical Trial Advisory Committee.

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In response to Professor Nike Bello's achievements, Professor Olayinka Omigbodun, Provost of the College, expressed immense pride in her groundbreaking contributions to maternal health. He highlighted her dedication to making childbirth safer for at-risk mothers and emphasized the College's support for her ongoing efforts.

The recognition of Professor Nike Bello's work underscores the importance of collaborative initiatives and clinical trials in addressing maternal health challenges. As Nigeria strives to improve healthcare outcomes for women, the commitment and innovation demonstrated by Professor Bello serve as an inspiration for future advancements in the field of maternal care.