NPC commences health survey in Ogun

On Jan 19, 2024

The Chairman, National Population Commission, Nasir Kwarra, on Wednesday, disclosed that the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey is not just a survey but an instrument of transformation and a compass that guides towards a more prosperous and healthier nation.

Kwarra stated this while flagging off the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey for Ogun State.

He explained that the five-month exercise was aimed at collecting demographic data that would be used to improve the health and nutritional needs of the people, especially persons aged 15 to 49.

The NPC chairman, represented by the acting state Director of the NPC, Ogun State, Mr Folami Muka, addressed a press conference to kick off the exercise at the Federal Secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

He said, “In Ogun State, 46 clusters, cutting across 18 local government areas, have been selected using random sampling techniques.

“In each of the clusters, 45 households will be interviewed. Interviewers will ask questions on fertility awareness, use of planning methods, child immunisation routine, maternal and child health, awareness regarding HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and disability among other health-related issues.”

Kwarra explained that the objectives of the 2023-24 NDHS include gathering high-quality data on a wide range of vital indicators such as fertility rates, maternal and child health, contraceptive use, childhood mortality, and gender-related issues that would further be analysed to develop to address social poverty and align with national development strategies.

The chairman, therefore, solicited the cooperation of the residents to be interviewed given the importance of the exercise.

He said, “The data we collect, analyze and utilise are not mere statistics, they represent the health, aspirations and challenges of our people. Let this launch be a clarion call for us all to come together and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead,” he added.

PUNCH/Wumi