The Federal Government has launched the 2024 Nigeria National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) report, unveiling key data on fertility, child mortality, immunization, and other health indicators to guide policy and strengthen evidence-based planning.
The launch took place in Abuja on Friday, with the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, describing the survey as “an indispensable tool for policy decisions, health equity, and efficient resource allocation.”
According to the 2024 NDHS, Nigeria’s total fertility rate has declined from 5.3 children per woman in 2018 to 4.8, while modern contraceptive use among married women increased to 15 percent.
Maternal health indicators showed antenatal care coverage at 63 percent, skilled birth attendance at 46 percent, and postnatal coverage within two days at 42 percent.
The report also highlighted child survival progress, with under-five mortality falling to 110 deaths per 1,000 live births, though neonatal mortality remains largely unchanged at 41 per 1,000. Vaccination coverage remains low, with only 39 percent of children aged 12–23 months fully vaccinated, and 31 percent still unvaccinated.
Ownership of insecticide-treated nets was widespread, but usage among pregnant women remains at 50 percent.
Dr. Salako said the findings would inform policy reforms and programs, including the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Initiative (MAMII) and the Nigeria Child Survival Action Plan 2025–2029.
He urged state governments and partners to use the data to target investments and improve health outcomes.
Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of the National Population Commission, noted that the survey covered over 40,000 households across Nigeria and praised partners such as USAID, UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, the World Bank, The Global Fund, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for their support.
Dr. Salako described the NDHS as “a tool to build a modern, people-centric, and equitable Nigerian health system,” emphasizing that it shows where the country stands and the path forward to achieve better health for all Nigerians.
