NPC launches 2024 Nigeria verbal and social autopsy (VASA) study in Niger State

The National Population Commission (NPC) has officially inaugurated the 2024 Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) study, a nationwide initiative aimed at tackling maternal and child mortality in Niger State.

The announcement was made by Muhammad Dattijo-Usman, Federal Commissioner of the NPC in Niger, during a press conference in Minna on Friday.

Represented by the state Director, Nma Shehu, Usman highlighted that the study is part of a nationwide effort, carried out in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, with technical support from Inner City Fund (ICF) and Johns Hopkins University.

The primary goal of the study is to provide critical insights into the causes of under-five and maternal deaths across communities.

“This is a crucial survey designed to identify the underlying causes of under-five and maternal deaths in our communities,” Usman stated. He added that the study is a follow-up to the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) concluded in May 2024.

The data gathered from this survey will help identify both biomedical and social causes of mortality among children under five and women of reproductive age.

Usman emphasized that the study would focus on social and health-related factors contributing to these deaths, which would, in turn, help inform policies to improve maternal and child health.

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He urged traditional and community leaders to support the initiative, encouraging their communities to participate fully in the study.

He also requested the public’s cooperation, assuring them that the interviewers would approach the study with respect, ensuring confidentiality.

The fieldwork for the study will take place in selected communities in 20 local government areas of Niger State between November 4 and December 15, 2024.

Mr. Domchak Yohana, Team Lead and Supervisor of VASA in Niger, revealed that 20 out of the 25 local government areas in the state were randomly selected for the study.

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The selected areas include Chanchaga, Rafi, Shiroro, Borgu, Mokwa, Bida, Kontagora, Mashegu, Lavun, Bosso, Paikoro, Mariga, Lapai, Katcha, Gbako, Gurara, Tafa, Suleja, Magama, and Agaie.