**Saving Lives, One Breath at a Time: FG's Oxygen Plan for Nigeria's Mothers and Children** As Nigeria continues to battle high rates of maternal and under-five mortality, a critical yet often overlooked lifeline has emerged - access to medical oxygen. This essential therapy is often the difference between life and death, especially during childbirth complications, severe infections, and respiratory illnesses. The federal government has taken notice and is taking bold steps to ensure that every Nigerian has access to reliable and affordable oxygen supplies. The Oxygen Sustainability Plan, a brainchild of the federal government, aims to transform the way health systems deliver and manage medical oxygen. By ensuring a continuous and affordable supply of oxygen in hospitals and clinics nationwide, this plan has the potential to dramatically reduce preventable deaths among mothers and children. The implications are far-reaching, and the impact could be felt across the country, one life at a time. According to Dr. Gilbert Shetak, the National Desk Officer for Oxygen at the Federal Ministry of Health, the government is prioritizing the expansion of oxygen production and distribution nationwide. While the private sector plays a crucial role in oxygen production, the government is stepping in to ensure increased funding and engagement with private sector players to boost production capacity. Efforts are also underway to expand liquid oxygen production, with APEX emerging as a major player in this space. However, the government recognizes that more needs to be done. Dr. Shetak emphasized the need for both the federal and state governments to allocate dedicated budgetary provisions towards expanding oxygen production and improving access nationwide. This is a call to action that requires collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders. The oxygen crisis in Nigeria is a ticking time bomb, with far-reaching implications for the country's healthcare system. By addressing this gap, the government can save thousands of lives and strengthen the country's broader push towards safer maternal and child health outcomes. The Oxygen Sustainability Plan is a beacon of hope, and it's time for Nigerians to rally behind this initiative. With collective effort and commitment, we can ensure that every mother and child has access to the oxygen they need to thrive. The future of our nation's health depends on it.