By Joy Salami
The National Population Commission (NPC), in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), has launched the 2024 Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) Study in Kogi State.
This critical initiative aims to uncover the root causes of under-five and maternal deaths in communities, providing insights to shape policies and interventions that reduce preventable fatalities.
Speaking at the press briefing, the State Director of the NPC, Mr. Abiodun Ojo, emphasized the importance of the VASA study. He described it as a follow-up to the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2023-2024, which was concluded in May this year.
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According to Mr. Ojo, the NDHS collects vital data on health indicators such as family planning, breastfeeding, nutritional status, childhood and maternal mortality, domestic violence, and more. However, VASA goes a step further by revisiting households where child or maternal deaths were recorded to investigate the underlying causes.
“This survey is crucial for policymakers to address pressing health issues and develop strategies to improve the well-being of mothers and children, not only in Kogi State but across the nation,” Mr. Ojo stated.
In his address, the Federal Commissioner, NPC, Kogi State, Engr. Yori Afolabi, highlighted the collaborative effort between the NPC, FMOH, Kogi State Government, and other partners, noting that the 2024 VASA study builds on previous editions conducted in 2014 and 2019.
“This study will focus on the biomedical and social causes of death among children under five and women of reproductive age,” Engr. Afolabi explained. “The data gathered will guide decision-makers in implementing targeted interventions to reduce maternal and child mortality.”
He revealed that the fieldwork for the VASA study will be conducted across 67 selected communities in Kogi State from November 17 to December 17, 2024 adding that trained data collectors will visit households to interview family members, gathering sensitive information to understand the circumstances surrounding reported deaths.
Engr. Afolabi appealed for the cooperation of the public, stressing the importance of community support for the success of the project, while calling on traditional and community leaders to mobilize their people and encourage participation.
Recognizing the pivotal role of the media, Engr. Afolabi urged journalists to help disseminate accurate information about the VASA study.
He also reassured the public that all data collected would be handled with utmost respect and confidentiality.“By participating in this study, you are contributing directly to preventing unnecessary losses and securing a healthier future for our communities,” he added.
The NPC commended the Kogi State Government, its partners, and the media for their unwavering support. It called on residents to welcome the interviewers and provide truthful information, emphasizing that their cooperation is key to achieving the study’s objectives.
As the 2024 Nigeria VASA study commences in Kogi State, it presents an opportunity to address critical health challenges and lay the foundation for a healthier future for mothers and children across Nigeria.
