title: Coverage and distribution of obstetricians and gynecologists in Nigeria.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To determine the number, regional spread, and population ratio of obstetricians and gynecologists (OB/GYNs) in Nigeria.
  
  
  METHODS
  Data for the present descriptive study were collected between July 1, 2012, and December 31, 2013, as part of a national survey of OB/GYNs. Information was obtained about characteristics, qualifications, place of work, primary employer, subspecialty interest, and type of practice.
  
  
  RESULTS
  In total, 968 OB/GYNs were identified, of whom 846 (87.4%) were male. The estimated national population in 2013 was 175651197, which meant that there was one OB/GYN for every 181 458 individuals. Lagos State had the highest number of OB/GYNs (179 [18.5%]), whereas Yobe State had only 2 (0.2%) and Jigawa State 1 (0.1%). The geopolitical region with the highest number of OB/GYNs was the South West (315 [32.5%]), whereas the North East had the lowest number (45 [4.6%]).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The number of OB/GYNs in Nigeria is inadequate in view of the population size, and coverage varies greatly in different states. Efforts to improve maternal health and reduce the maternal mortality ratio should include more investment in training, engagement, and equitable distribution of OB/GYNs in all parts of the country.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria. Electronic address: agboschris@yahoo.com.
authors.forename: Chris O
authors.initials: CO
authors.lastname: Agboghoroma
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Etedafe P
authors.initials: EP
authors.lastname: Gharoro
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008427:Maternal Health Services / Q000600:supply & distribution; D009549:Nigeria; D009774:Obstetrics; D011247:Pregnancy; D012744:Sex Ratio; D000078329:Workforce
keywords: Human resources for health; Maternal health care; Maternal mortality ratio; Nigeria; Obstetricians and gynecologists