NPC NDHS Meant For Evidence-Based Planning And Resource Allocation-Agara

To Ascertain Maternal Mortality Rate But Not A Replacement For Head Count

Rabiu Omaku

The Commissioner National Population Commission, Honorable Silas Ali Agara has confirmed that the Nigeria Demographic Health Survey of the  NPC  was not a replacement for head count but rather was meant for evidence-based planning, and resource allocation as well to ascertain maternal mortality rate in the country.

Agara gave the hint during a press conference held at the NPC State office in Lafia recently.

He explained that the press briefing was a step down from the one-month National training held in Akwanga recently by the National Population Commission.

He disclosed that the Commission is poised to get an accurate numerical strength of Nigerians health-wise as well maintained that the objectives of the Nigeria Demographic Health Survey can never be over-emphasized.

He emphasized that the Nigeria Demographic Health Survey was meant to gather high-quality data on a wide range of vital indicators which he said include fertility rates, maternal and child health, and contraceptive use.

Others are gender-related issues, nutrition, HIV/AIDS awareness, and more, He in addition stated that the NDHS was meant to provide data supporting evaluation needs of maternal and child health and family planning programs, enabling evidence-based planning and resource allocation.

Agara affirmed that for over three decades, The National Population Commission in collaboration with key partners like the United Nations Population Fund (UNPF) USAID has diligently implemented the NDHS.

According to him,”, “This has consistently raised the bar for Demographic and Health Data collection in Nigeria, Today, as we launch this survey at the State level, we reiterate our commitment to upholding the same high standards of excellence and precision that have defined the NDHS over the years.

The Commissioner of NPC during the official launching of the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey in Nasarawa State said the initiative marks a watershed not only as representatives of the various Government and Non-Governmental entities but as champions of data-driven development

Silas Ali Agara advocates for improved health outcomes and is the custodian of a brighter future for our beloved nation, Nigeria through NDHS, as he acknowledged the importance of partners both at the national and State level in the successful execution of the endeavor.

Agara attributed every bide of success of the program to support from development partners who were instrumental in bringing the Commission to where it is today.

“The success of the 2023-2024 NDHS hinges importantly on the viable campaign, He added.