Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

The Federal Government has initiated a study to investigate the root causes of neonatal and maternal deaths across the country.

The program, known as the Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) study, involves data collection from selected local governments, conducted by field workers from the National Population Commission (NPC) and the Federal Ministry of Health.

Speaking in Osogbo during the launch of fieldwork for Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo States, NPC’s National Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, emphasized that VASA is a critical survey aimed at identifying the social and health-related factors contributing to under-five and maternal mortality. This data will help inform policies to address these issues and improve maternal and child health in the country.

Represented by the Federal Commissioner for Osun, Dr. Amidu Tadese, Kwarra urged traditional rulers to support the VASA team in achieving its objectives. He stressed that the study would collect essential data by conducting interviews with families in selected communities, aiming to understand the circumstances surrounding maternal and child deaths.

“The cooperation and support of every individual and community are crucial in ensuring that this study yields accurate and valuable information,” Kwarra said. “We call on traditional and community leaders to mobilize their communities and ensure full participation.”

Olusola Raheem, VASA team leader for Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo States, shared that the study had already been completed in Ekiti and would soon begin in 22 local government areas in Osun, before moving to Ondo for similar work.