A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MATERNAL MORTALITY IN FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTRE MUBI AND PRIMARY HEALTH CARE CENTERS IN MUBI NORTH AND MUBI SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF ADAMAWA STATE

Research Problem: Maternal mortality remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, with the country ranking among those contributing most to global maternal deaths. In Adamawa Stateparticularly in Mubithe situation is aggravated by persistent health system weaknesses, poor access to skilled maternal care, and sociocultural barriers. Methods/Theory: The study was guided by the Three Delays Model (Thaddeus & Maine, 1994), which emphasizes delays in decision-making, accessing healthcare, and receiving adequate care as major contributors to maternal mortality. A descriptive survey research design was utilized, involving women of reproductive age and healthcare workers across selected facilities, including FMC Mubi and primary health centres in Mubi North and South. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings revealed that haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy were perceived as the leading medical causes of maternal mortality, reported by over 80% of respondents. Socioeconomic factors such as unemployment, low income, and limited education further heightened vulnerability among women. Systemic factorsincluding inadequate antenatal surveillance,poor referral systems, and limited emergency obstetric carewere identified as major contributors to preventable maternal deaths. Conclusion: The study concludes that maternal mortality in Mubi is driven by a combination of clinical, socioeconomic, and health system deficiencies. Without addressing the delays in seeking, reaching, and receiving quality maternal care, maternal mortality will remain high despite ongoing interventions. Key Contribution to Knowledge: This research provides empirical evidence on how the Three Delays Model manifests within a low-resource context, highlighting the interplay between medical, social, and structural determinants of maternal mortality. Recommendation:The study recommends strengthening maternal healthcare systems through improved antenatal care services, early detection and management of pregnancy complications, and the establishment of efficient referral networks.