The National Population Commission (NPC) has officially launched the 2024 Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) Study in Akwa Ibom State, with a primary focus on reducing child and maternal deaths in the state.
The initiative, aimed at providing crucial insights into the causes of under-five and maternal mortality, was announced during a press conference by Chief Benedict Ukpong, the Federal Commissioner, in Uyo on Thursday, November 28.
In his address, Chief Ukpong emphasized the significance of the VASA Study in shaping health policies and interventions based on credible data.
He highlighted the collaborative efforts between the NPC, the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health and other key partners to address the prevailing health challenges affecting mothers and children in the state.
“The VASA Study is a critical step towards understanding the social and health-related factors that contribute to tragic losses among children under five years and women of reproductive age in our community,” Chief Ukpong stated.
He also acknowledged the essential role of traditional rulers in mobilizing community support for the study, emphasizing the collective responsibility towards promoting a healthier state and nation.
He said, “With fieldwork already underway in 24 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across Akwa Ibom State, trained data collectors are conducting interviews with families to gather valuable information on maternal and child mortality.
“The selected LGAs include Uyo, Uruan, Ibesikpo Asutan, Itu, Ikono, Ikot Ekpene, Ini, Nsit Atai. Others are: Essien Udim, Ibiono Ibom, Abak, Oruko Anam, Ika, Etinan and Ukanafun. The Study will also take place in Okobo, Oron, Urueoffong/Oruko, Eket, Esit Eket, Nsit Ubium, Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin and Onna.
“The VASA Study is building upon previous research efforts, including the 2014 and 2019 records, as well as the recent Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey conducted earlier this year.”
Chief Ukpong expressed optimism that the findings from the study would inform evidence-based strategies to address preventable deaths and improve the overall well-being of the population.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor, Bureau of Political and Social Reorientation, Elder Amanam Nkanga, said child mortality rate has been recorded at 11 percent, according to the National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS).
Nkanga explained that the high mortality rate indicated that 1 in every 9 children dies within five years of existence, adding that drastic measures must be taken to curb the situation.
While congratulating NPC for their consistent effort in promoting healthy lives of the citizens, Nkanga registered the commitment of the Akwa Ibom State government in providing the enabling environment for the success of the exercise.
Meanwhile, the State Director of NPC, Mr Emmanuel Edem, lauded the federal and the state governments for collaborating to set agenda for a hopeful and meaningful lives of the people.
