NPC Launches 2024 VASA Study to Address Maternal and Child Mortality
By Our Correspondent
The National Population Commission (NPC) has officially launched the 2024 Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) Study, which aims to address maternal and child mortality in Niger State.
During a press conference in Minna, Alhaji Muhammad Dattijo Usman, the Federal Commissioner of NPC in Niger State, announced that this study is a vital survey designed to provide insights into the causes of under-five and maternal deaths in the communities of Niger State.
Representing Muhammad Dattijo Usman at the briefing, the State Director of NPC in Niger State, Nma Alhaji Shehu, explained that the study is being conducted in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, with technical support from ICF and Johns Hopkins University.
“We are here to introduce the 2024 Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) Study, a crucial survey designed to shed light on the causes of under-five and maternal deaths in our communities,” said Usman.
He noted that this study follows the comprehensive 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, which was concluded in May of this year.
According to Usman, the study will provide valuable information to help shape health policies and interventions aimed at reducing preventable deaths.
The NPC, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), is implementing this nationwide study.
“This study builds on previous efforts from 2014 and 2019 and will collect essential data regarding both maternal and child mortality, focusing on the social and health-related factors contributing to these tragic losses,” he added.
“This information will empower decision-makers to tackle the underlying issues that lead to these deaths and will ultimately inform policies designed to improve maternal and child health both in the state and beyond.”
Usman mentioned that fieldwork for the study will be conducted in selected communities throughout the state from November 4 to December 15, 2024.
He urged traditional and community leaders to support the study by encouraging their communities to welcome the interviewers and participate fully in the process.
“We call on our respected leaders to lend their voices to this study, urging their communities to cooperate with the interviewers and fully participate,” Usman said.
He also appealed to the public to cooperate with the interviewers, assuring them of utmost respect and confidentiality.
The commissioner emphasized that the collaboration and support of every resident is crucial for the success of 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,” he stated.
Usman expressed gratitude to all partners, including the State Government and State Ministries, for their unwavering support and commitment to the success of the study.
Additionally, Mr. Domchak Yohana, Team Lead and Supervisor of VASA in Niger State, reported that out of the 25 local government areas in the state, twenty have been randomly selected for the VASA study.
He listed the selected local government areas as follows: Chanchaga, Rafi, Shiroro, Borgu, Mokwa, Bida, Kontagora, Mashegu, Lavun, Bosso, Paikoro, Mariga, Lapai, Katcha, Gbako, Gurara, Tafa, Suleja, Magama, and Agaie.
