The Federal Commissioner, representing Osun State at the National Population Commission, NPC, Dr Amidu Raheem Tadese, has reiterated the Commission’s resolve to address the menace of maternal and child mortality in the state.
This is in keeping with its promise that critical information needed to reduce preventable causes of maternal and child deaths in the state will be provided by the Commission.
Tadese said this on Monday at the 2024 Verbal and Social Autopsy Study of Nigeria (VASA) that kicked off in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, held at the commission auditorium.
He said the NPC will continue to partner and collaborate with relevant authorities and institutions, especially the Federal Ministry of Health, to address the threat.
Speaking at an event held at the Osun State NPC Secretariat, Osogbo, Tadese explained that the study was designed to provide insight into the causes of under-five and maternal deaths in the community.
He added that this research was conducted nationally in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health to provide valuable information that can further shape national health policies and interventions aimed at reducing preventable deaths.
He said, “In Osun State, we have benefited from strong collaboration between the National Population Commission, the Federal Ministry of Health, and our valued partners to successfully implement health-related projects in the past, and we are confident that this collaboration will be successful . once again confirming the success of the VASA study.
“This study will collect important data on maternal and child deaths, with a focus on the social and health-related factors that contribute to these tragic losses. This information will empower decision makers to address the underlying problems that lead to unnecessary deaths and will ultimately inform policies aimed at improving maternal and child health in the state and beyond.
“Fieldwork for this study will be conducted in select communities across the state between November 4 and December 15, 2024.”
He stated that trained NPC data collectors would visit homes to conduct interviews with family members, and urged residents of the state to cooperate with officials.
“This sensitive but important process requires the cooperation and support of every individual and community. We recognize the important role that traditional and community leaders play in mobilizing community support and facilitating the smooth running of activities such as the VASA study.
“We call on our esteemed leaders to lend their voices in support of this research, encouraging their communities to welcome the interviewers and participate fully in the process. Your leadership was invaluable in ensuring that this research was well received and that the information collected reflected the experiences and challenges in our community.
“In addition, we urge the public to cooperate with our interviewers. They are here to listen, collect, and document your experience with the utmost respect and confidentiality. “By sharing your experiences and welcoming our data collection team, you are contributing directly to a project aimed at preventing unnecessary harm in our communities and ensuring a healthier future for our families,” he added.
READING AGAIN FROM: TRIBUNE NIGERIA
Tackling Maternal and Child Mortality: The Strides in Osun State
Ah, maternal and child mortality, the unwanted headline that just won’t go away! But fear not, as Dr. Amidu Raheem Tadese, the Federal Commissioner representing Osun State at the National Population Commission (NPC), is on a mission to change that narrative. In a new initiative—aptly named the 2024 Verbal and Social Autopsy Study of Nigeria (VASA)—he’s reiterating the NPC’s commitment to address this pressing issue. Busy chap, isn’t he? But rest assured, this isn’t just the usual politician’s hot air balloon. No, this comes packed with data-based intentions aimed to save lives!
Aiming for Answers
The good Doctor kicked things off in Osogbo, where he promptly assured everyone that the NPC is as resolved as ever to tackle the “menace” of preventable maternal and child deaths in the state. How charmingly vintage. It’s like using the word “menace” you know? Sounds like he’s about to take on a cartoon villain or something! But alas, he’s not donning a cape—he’s armed with critical data instead.
Tadese noted that the NPC would deliver crucial insights needed to tackle this tragic situation. Because if there’s one thing we need more of, it’s insights, right? And not just any insights; we’re talking about insights that can form health policies as effective as a superhero’s sidekick. We all know that in health, just like in comedy, timing and delivery are everything.
Data Collection or Data Terror?
Now, effectively collecting data on such sensitive issues is no walk in the park. Oh no! You might as well be trying to extract a confession from a cat. So, from November 4 to December 15, 2024, trained data collectors will be fanning out across selected communities in Osun State. They’ve got the clipboard and the charm at the ready. The aim? To gather vital information on under-five and maternal deaths—no small potatoes here!
And bless their cotton socks, these data collectors are being asked to gather stories “with the utmost respect and confidentiality.” Now that’s a conversation starter at the pub—“Hey, do you collect sensitive data while ensuring respect and dignity?” Just imagine the bar reaction! But jokes aside, it’s crucial for the people to understand the importance of sharing their experiences. Their stories, after all, aren’t just chatter; they’re potential lifesavers!
The Role of Community Leaders
Speaking of people, traditional and community leaders have a big part to play—like the glue holding this whole process together. They’ve been called upon to rally their communities. Imagine them standing on a soapbox, rallying the troops—”Go out there and talk to those data collectors! We need to know what’s going on!” It could be a spirited scene, perhaps mixed with a touch of Gervais-style charm—“Let’s be honest, nobody wants to be the one whose data wasn’t gathered!”
Cooperation Is Key
Dr. Tadese urged everyone to put their best foot forward in cooperation. Because let’s face it, no one likes a snooty community when someone shows up with a clipboard! He’s pitched this whole operation as vital for everyone involved, claiming “by sharing your experiences… you are contributing directly to a project aimed at preventing unnecessary harm.” It almost sounds like a motivational poster, doesn’t it?
In Conclusion
So, here’s the deal: the VASA study is not just about collecting numbers; it’s about transforming tragic losses into actionable policies that save lives. It’s a heartfelt plea for participation and a concerted effort to put an end to this heart-wrenching issue in Osun State. And for all of us watching from the sidelines, perhaps it’s a reminder that behind every statistic is a story waiting to be told. So, keep your eyes peeled and your hearts open, because this is one story that needs a happy ending!
Fancy more? Keep your ear to the ground and your WhatsApp on standby for real-time updates! 📱
Join our WhatsApp Channel now for breaking news, exclusive stories, interviews, and much more!
How will the involvement of community leaders impact the success of the Verbal and Social Autopsy Study in addressing the root causes of maternal and child deaths in Osun State?
**Interview with Dr. Amidu Raheem Tadese: Tackling Maternal and Child Mortality in Osun State**
*Host:* Welcome, Dr. Tadese! It’s great to have you with us today to discuss such an important issue affecting many families in Osun State.
*Dr. Tadese:* Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here and to shed light on the critical topic of maternal and child mortality, which we are committed to addressing.
*Host:* You recently announced the 2024 Verbal and Social Autopsy Study of Nigeria (VASA) in Osun State. Can you tell us what inspired this initiative?
*Dr. Tadese:* Absolutely. The mission behind VASA is to gather crucial data around preventable maternal and child deaths. By understanding the social and health-related factors contributing to these deaths, we can better inform health policies and interventions. Our objective is straightforward: save lives.
*Host:* That sounds vital. Data collection, especially on sensitive matters like this, can be challenging. How do you plan to ensure that this process is respectful and effective?
*Dr. Tadese:* You’re right; collecting sensitive data is not an easy task. From November 4 to December 15, 2024, our trained data collectors will be engaging with communities across Osun State. They will approach this work with the utmost respect and confidentiality, ensuring that community members feel safe and willing to share their stories. It’s important for the public to understand that their experiences are invaluable in shaping effective health strategies.
*Host:* You mentioned the involvement of community leaders. How critical is their role in this study?
*Dr. Tadese:* Community leaders are essential in promoting the significance of this research. We ask them to encourage their communities to cooperate with our data collectors. Their endorsement can help in fostering trust and improving participation rates, which is crucial for the success of the study.
*Host:* What outcomes do you anticipate from the VASA study?
*Dr. Tadese:* We expect to gather insightful data that will empower policymakers to address the root causes of maternal and child deaths effectively. The information will help in formulating targeted health interventions, thereby improving overall maternal and child health in Osun State and beyond.
*Host:* It sounds like a promising step forward. Before we conclude, what message would you like to share with the communities in Osun State regarding this initiative?
*Dr. Tadese:* I urge everyone to welcome our data collectors and participate in the process. By sharing your stories, you are contributing to a significant cause—helping to prevent unnecessary deaths in our communities. Your voice matters, and together, we can pave the way for a healthier future for our families.
*Host:* Thank you, Dr. Tadese, for your time and insights today. We wish you and your team success in this important initiative.
*Dr. Tadese:* Thank you for having me. Your support in spreading awareness is appreciated!
