The 2023/2024 Demographic Health and Survey exercise is currently ongoing in Borno State, with the National Population Commission (NPC) announcing the exclusion of six out of the 27 Local Government Areas from participating in the survey due to security concerns. Nasir Kwarra, the Chairman of the commission, revealed this during a press conference held in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The excluded local government areas – Chibok, Magumeri, Abadam, Mobar, Marte, and Guzamala – were carefully considered as security flashpoints, requiring significant logistical support for staff conveyance. Kwarra emphasized that the safety of their staff is paramount and they cannot risk their lives in these areas.
Despite the exclusions, Kwarra mentioned that the affected LGAs could benefit from the neighboring communities and LGAs where the survey is being conducted, allowing the data obtained from those areas to be applied to them as well.
The NPC aims to gather high-quality data on various crucial indicators such as fertility rates, maternal and child health, childhood mortality, gender-related issues, and nutrition through the NDHS exercise. This data will be utilized by major stakeholders to make informed decisions for addressing the unique needs of citizens, improving health outcomes, and reducing the burden of disease across the country.
During the press conference, Kwarra urged the media to educate citizens on the significance of the exercise and address cultural and religious misunderstandings about the program over the next five months. He expressed appreciation for the support and cooperation received from the public and the communities involved, as evidenced by NDHS field workers across the state.
Amidst the launch of the 2023-24 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey and the unveiling of the remodelled Akwa Ibom State NPC office building for the exercise, Kwarra assured the delivery of a credible, reliable, and acceptable population census in the country. He also pledged to provide the necessary facilities to ensure a comfortable work environment for NPC personnel.
