The Federal Ministry of Health has officially launched three newborn guidelines and training manuals to keep parents and premature babies alive.

Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire disclosed this at the commemoration of World's Prematurity Day in Abuja, Thursday.

Dr. Enahire said that the documents will stand as additional information for primary health workers in guiding pregnant women to help reduce the current neonatal mortality record in Nigeria.

The Minister also stressed the need for pregnant women to be encouraged to access early anti-natal care to enhance the early detection of existing medical conditions that can cause premature birth.

Representative of UNICEF, Walter Kazadi on his part encouraged early exclusive breastfeeding and the availability of good health services for premature newborns.

The documents launched are:

-Kangaroo Mother Care Operational Guidelines

-National Guideline for Basic Newborn Care

-National Guidelines for Comprehensive Newborn Care Training Manual.