Abstract
This comprehensive review examines the barriers and incentives influencing the use of partographs in maternal healthcare within Nigeria. Maternal mortality remains a critical concern in the country, making it imperative to evaluate the factors that shape the adoption of essential tools like the partograph. The literature review underscores the global significance of partograph utilization, emphasizing its role in improving maternal outcomes. A particular focus is placed on existing studies and findings relevant to Nigeria, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by healthcare providers. The article delves into the barriers hindering the widespread adoption of partographs in Nigeria, including issues related to training, resource availability, and cultural considerations. Additionally, it explores the incentives that can positively influence healthcare practitioners and facilities to integrate partographs into their maternal care protocols. Government policies and initiatives in Nigeria related to maternal healthcare and partograph use are also analyzed, shedding light on the broader contextual factors impacting implementation. Through examining case studies, the review presents real-world examples that illustrate successful and challenging instances of partograph implementation. The article concludes with actionable recommendations to overcome identified barriers and enhance incentives for effectively integrating partographs into maternal healthcare practices in Nigeria. This study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on improving maternal healthcare, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies in the Nigerian context.