NPC to conduct VASA in 17 LGAs of Bauchi State
By Ahmed Ahmed
The National Population Commission (NPC) is set to conduct Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) in 53 communities of 17 local Government areas of Bauchi State aimed at understanding the causes of maternal and child deaths in the State
Alhaji Mohammed Darazo, NPC Federal Commissioner in Bauchi State, stated this at a news conference to introduce the 2024 Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) Study on Thursday in Bauchi.
He said the initiative is a collaborative effort between the NPC and the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), building on previous studies conducted in 2014 and 2019.
According to him, the objective of the survey is to investigate underlying causes and contributing factors responsible for deaths among children aged 0-5 years and women of reproductive age.
“Collect essential data on maternal and child mortality, focusing on social and health-related factors.
“Inform policies and interventions aimed at reducing preventable deaths,” he said.
He stressed that the 2024 VASA Study is crucial for addressing maternal and child mortality.
“We’re committed to gathering accurate data to inform life-saving policies.” The Federal Commissioner’ said
Darazo urges traditional and community leaders to support the study by encouraging their communities to participate fully.
“The public is also asked to cooperate with interviewers, sharing their experiences with utmost respect and confidentiality,” he said.
The Project Coordinator VSA in Bauchi Mr Gabriel said the survey Is an effort to reduce maternal and child mortality
“We’ll use the findings to strengthen healthcare services.” He said
He mentioned the 17 local government areas as Alkaleri,Bauchi , Darazo, Dass, Gamawa, Ganjuwa, It’s Gadau, Katagum
Others are Kirfi , Misau, Ningi ,Shira Tafawa Balewa, Toro, Warji and Zaki.