The Federal Government has initiated the Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) Study in Ondo State to investigate the causes of maternal and under-five child mortality. The study, launched on Tuesday in Akure, the state capital, aims to provide critical insights into the biomedical and social factors contributing to these deaths.
Spearheaded by the National Population Commission (NPC) and the Federal Ministry of Health, the project will cover 13 out of the 18 local government areas in Ondo State, including Akoko North-East, Akoko South-West, Owo, Akure South, Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo, Ondo West, Idanre, Odigbo, Ifedore, Ese-Odo, Okitipupa, Irele, and Ilaje.
Building on Past Efforts
The NPC National Commissioner, Mr. Ayodeji Ajayi, described the study as a follow-up to the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) concluded in May. “This round of VASA builds on previous studies from 2014 and 2019, which provided essential data for health policy reforms aimed at reducing preventable deaths,” Ajayi stated.
He added, “Our trained data collectors will revisit NDHS households to gather information on the circumstances surrounding maternal and child deaths. This data will empower decision-makers to implement targeted policies that improve maternal and child health outcomes across Ondo State and Nigeria at large.”
Community Support is Key
Ondo State NPC Director, Mrs. Olayinka Chijioke, highlighted the importance of collaboration, urging community leaders and residents to support the initiative. Traditional rulers and local leaders were called upon to encourage community members to participate fully in the survey by welcoming interviewers and providing accurate information.
Ajayi emphasized the study’s impact, stating, “This initiative will not only address the underlying causes of maternal and child mortality but also shape interventions that safeguard the health and well-being of women and children in our communities.”
The study, which has already been conducted in Ekiti and Osun States, is expected to provide actionable insights for improved healthcare delivery in Ondo State.
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