Pregnant Mothers Sleep in Canoes: How Young Nigerians Can Help Makoko

Photo: The Punch

Imagine being nine months pregnant and having to sleep in a canoe because your home was demolished overnight. This is the harsh reality facing pregnant women in Makoko right now, and honestly, it's breaking my heart.

The Real Story Behind the Headlines

When we hear "demolition," we often think about statistics and government policies. But behind every demolished structure is a human story. In Makoko, pregnant women who should be preparing for their babies are instead scrambling for basic shelter and safety.

These women are literally sleeping in canoes - the same boats they use for transportation - because they have nowhere else to go. Can you imagine trying to get comfortable with a baby bump in a narrow canoe? The stress alone is enough to cause complications, not to mention the complete lack of proper antenatal care.

Why This Should Matter to Every Young Nigerian

As young Nigerians, we often feel disconnected from issues affecting our most vulnerable citizens. But here's the thing - these pregnant women in Makoko are our mothers, sisters, and future mothers of Nigerian children. Their struggle is our struggle.

The health risks these women face are serious. Without proper shelter, they're exposed to:

• Increased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
• Higher chances of preterm birth
• Infections from unsanitary conditions
• Severe stress that can affect both mother and baby
• No access to emergency medical care during labor

The Bigger Picture: Housing Crisis in Lagos

Makoko's situation isn't happening in isolation. It's a symptom of Lagos State's massive housing deficit. With over 20 million people in Lagos and not enough affordable housing, communities like Makoko emerge as people try to survive in one of Africa's most expensive cities.

But demolishing without providing alternatives? That's like removing a plaster without cleaning the wound. It creates more problems than it solves.

How Young Nigerians Can Make a Real Difference

Here's where we come in. We might not be able to solve the housing crisis overnight, but we can definitely help these pregnant women and their families. Here are practical ways to get involved:

1. Direct Financial Support

• Contribute to verified NGOs working in Makoko like the Lagos Food Bank or local community groups
• Start a crowdfunding campaign among your friends and family
• Even ₦500 can buy essential items for a pregnant woman

2. Donation Drives

• Organize collection of baby items: diapers, baby clothes, formula
• Gather maternal health supplies: vitamins, mosquito nets, clean water containers
• Collect basic shelter materials: tarpaulins, blankets, mattresses

3. Use Your Voice and Platform

• Share their stories on social media (but do it respectfully)
• Tag relevant government agencies and demand accountability
• Join advocacy groups pushing for better housing policies
• Write to your local government representatives

4. Volunteer Your Skills

• If you're a medical student, offer basic health screenings
• Tech-savvy? Help NGOs improve their digital presence
• Good with logistics? Help coordinate donation drives
• Can you write? Document their stories for awareness campaigns

The Power of Collective Action

One person might not be able to house all displaced Makoko residents, but imagine if 1,000 young Nigerians each contributed ₦2,000. That's ₦2 million that could provide temporary shelter and medical care for these pregnant women.

We've seen how powerful young Nigerians can be when we come together - from #EndSARS to various fundraising efforts. This is another opportunity to show that we care about our own.

Long-term Solutions We Should Advocate For

While helping immediately is crucial, we also need to push for systemic changes:

• Affordable housing programs specifically for low-income families
• Proper relocation plans before any demolition
• Mobile health clinics for vulnerable communities
• Better urban planning that considers existing communities

Final Thoughts: This Is About Our Humanity

At the end of the day, this isn't just about politics or urban planning - it's about pregnant women who need our help right now. These women didn't choose to be homeless; circumstances beyond their control put them there.

As young Nigerians, we have the energy, creativity, and heart to make a difference. We might not be able to solve everything, but we can ensure that no pregnant woman has to give birth in a canoe because she has nowhere else to go.

The question isn't whether we can help - it's whether we will choose to help. And I believe we will, because that's who we are as Nigerians. We show up for each other.

So, what will you do today to help a pregnant woman in Makoko sleep a little more comfortably tonight?