… Emphasizes on accurate data for national planning
By Ayobami Agboola, Osogbo
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the World Population Day, Family planning has again been described as one of the key strategies to control the continuous population growth in the country.
Mrs Ololade Abatan, Family Planning Coordinator, Osun State Ministry of Health stated this while speaking at a media roundtable meeting with family planning stakeholders to commemorate the 2024 World Population Day, sponsored by The Challenge Initiative (TCI) and DevComs, in Osogbo, Osun State.
She stressed the need to dispel misconceptions, myths and rumors surrounding family planning to increase its acceptance among the general population.
Abatan, emphasized the vital role of media professionals in raising awareness and providing accurate information on family planning, its benefits, and the importance of making informed decisions.
According to Abatan, family planning is essential for maintaining healthy living and preventing population explosion.
Speaking, Dr. Oyetunde Olasumboye, the head of the Monitoring and Evaluation unit of the Osun State Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of a data-driven approach in planning and implementing various interventions across sectors in the country.
Olasumboye noted that data plays a crucial role in bridging inequity gaps, ensuring social inclusion, and fostering a progressive economy.
Olasumboye, who spoke on “Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data Towards a Resilient and Equitable Future for All,” highlighted the significance of data in decision-making processes at the national, state, and local government levels. He explained that data helps identify the specific needs of different communities, allowing for better resource allocation and targeted interventions.
In her remarks, Dr. Adebusola Oyeyemi, TCI State Manager, said accurate statistics would assist the government in planning for its citizens. Represented by TCI Demand Generation State Technical Lead, Mr. Daniel Oluwafunso, she noted that by prioritizing family planning, the nation can better allocate resources and mitigate issues such as crime, poverty, and maternal mortality.
She added that overpopulation has been identified as a significant contributor to various socioeconomic problems in Nigeria, including increased crime rates.
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