The National Population Commission has issued a stern warning to officers involved in data collection for the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, emphasizing the importance of accurate information from respondents.

Speaking at a press conference in Awka, Federal Commissioner Chidi Ezeoke, represented by state Director Dr. Joachim Ulasi, stressed that any form of data manipulation would have serious consequences not only for the officers involved but also for the country as a whole.

Ezeoke expressed confidence in the selected officers, who had undergone rigorous three-week training to ensure their competence and integrity. 

He emphasized the importance of diversity in the survey sample, urging officers to avoid interviewing themselves or manipulating responses to maintain the accuracy of the data.

“Do not manipulate data and do not stay in a place and interview yourself because when you do that, you will repeat the same answers.

“When you interview 20 persons, their views must surely be different. That is the secret of the survey.

“I believe in the law of Kama. Therefore, any form of manipulation will affect both the officer and the country in the long run,” he said.

The Commissioner emphasized the crucial role of the NDHS in shaping evidence-based policies, improving public health interventions, and contributing to the state’s overall development agenda. He highlighted the survey’s coverage of 20 local government areas in Anambra, excluding Ayamelum, which previously participated in a similar survey in 2018.

The 2023-2024 NDHS will run from December 7, 2023, to April 21, 2024, across 38 clusters in the selected local government areas. 

The gathered data will provide invaluable insights into various demographic and health indicators, paving the way for informed decision-making and improved well-being for the citizens of Anambra State.