…survey to be carried out by NPC in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health
Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a special survey to identify the causes of under-five and maternal deaths in the country with the aim of addressing them headlong.
The survey tagged “Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) is being carried out by the National Population Commission (NPC), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH).
Addressing newsmen in Ado Ekiti, the NPC Federal Commissioner representing Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodeji Ajayi who spoke through the NPC Ekiti State Director
Dr. Olufunmbi Olowokere affirmed that the study was a follow-up to the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey that was concluded in May this year.
According to him, the team of interviewers would be visiting some selected households to ask for information that would help the government understand and plan to address the various causes of death of children and women.
He noted that the survey would be carried out in thirty one communities randomly selected within the three Senatorial districts of the state.
Ajayi said:”Fieldwork for this study will be conducted in selected communities throughout the state between 4th November to 15th December 2024 as trained data collectors will visit households to conduct interviews with family members, gathering information that will help understand the circumstances surrounding maternal and child deaths.
“We call on our revered leaders to lend their voices in support of this study, encouraging their communities to welcome the interviewers and participate fully in the process. Your leadership is invaluable in ensuring that this study is well-received and that the information gathered reflects the experiences and challenges within our communities.
“The collaboration and support of every resident of our dear state is crucial for the VASA study. We ask that you receive our data collectors with understanding and kindness and that you actively participate by sharing the important details that will help us address the issues of maternal and child health.