NPC: We are Committed to Success of Nigeria’s Demographic, Health Survey

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The National Population Commission (NPC) has reiterated its determination to make the 2023-24 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) a success in Kogi State , has reiterated its commitment to the successful Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS).

The State Director, NPC, Kogi State, Mr. Abiodun Ojo gave this commitment while speaking at press briefing signifying the official launch of the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) Lokoja , Kogi State yesterday.

Ojo explained that the NDHS programme was a five-year project designed to assist institutions in collecting and analysing data needed to plan, monitor and evaluate population health and nutrition programmes.

According to him, the main objectives of the programme worldwide include but not limited to the following to provide improved information through appropriate data collection, analysis and evaluation.

It will also improve coordination and partnership in data collection a international and country level. and improve data collection analysis tools and methodologies and  Improve the dissemination and utilisation of data.

The state director pointed out that the current edition of the survey is the 7th  in the series and is aimed at providing information on population, fertility, family marriage, maternal and child health, child survival, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), reproductive health, nutrition, gender issues, domestic violence, tobacco and alcohol use in Nigeria.

Ojo further stated that all of them are health indicators that are very key and helpful to policy makers and program planners in health and health related planning.

He assured the journalists that  all expository presentation on the focus of the survey, saying it is obvious  that tremendous strategic planning must have been put in place for the implementation of the survey.

“This gathering therefore symbolises the culmination of such strategic planning. Hence the call for collaborative efforts, unwavering commitment from all stakeholders becomes imperative.

“Therefore, your esteemed presence here today further underscores a collective dedication to advancing the field of knowledge on the survey, bearing in mind your individual and corporate roles and responsibilities towards making the programme a huge success.

“For over three decades, the NPC has spearheaded the implementation of the NDHS, in close collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and key partners. This survey has been instrumental in providing invaluable insights that inform,” he said

He added that  Kogi State had already commenced the survey activities in 18 out the 21 local government areas since August 2023, stressing every local government areas would adequately covered in due course.