The National Population Commission (NPC) said six out of 27 local government areas of Borno State are not taking part in the ongoing 2023-24 Demographic Health and Survey exercise due to insecurity.
The Chairman of the NPC, Nasiru Isa Kwarai, disclosed this at a press conference in Maiduguri, on Monday.
He said the local government areas, which include Chibok, Magumeri, Abadam, Mobar, Marte and Guzamala were excluded after careful deliberation on security by the commission.
“They are considered flashpoints that require a lot of security logistics to convey our staff there, and we cannot risk the life of any of our staff.
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“However, it would have an impact on the state, but the excluded LGAs would take advantage of the neighboring communities and LGAs, where the exercise is taking place, so that whatever result obtained there would also be applied to them,” he said.
Kwarra, represented by Director of the NPC in Borno, Haruna Ibrahim, noted that the NDHS exercise would gather high-quality data on a wide range of vital indicators, including fertility rates, maternal and child health, childhood mortality, gender-related issues, nutrition and more.
“So, major stakeholders would use the data to make important decisions in addressing the unique needs of citizens, improve health outcomes, and reduce the burden of disease across the country,” he added.
He called on the media to use the five months’ period to educate citizens on the importance of the exercise and clear cultural and religious misunderstandings about the programme.
Kwarra said he appreciated the support and cooperation received from the public and the communities involved, as testified by NDHS field workers across the state.
