Data-driven decision making key to effective governance

Oyetunde Olasumboye, Head, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit at the Osun State Ministry of Health, has emphasized the importance of data-driven decision making in governance.

Speaking at the media round table with family planning stakeholders to commemorate 2024 World Population Day recently sponsored by The Challenge Initiative (TCI) and DevComs, Olasumboye, the guest speaker at the event, said that every level of Government – National, State and Local Level, should rely on data to inform their planning and interventions.

Olasumboye, who used family planning as an example, explained that data could reveal areas where uptake was low, allowing for targeted interventions to address the issue.

Speaking on the topic, “Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data Towards a Resilient and Equitable Future for All”, he said data, is at the foundation of every planning cycle.

He noted that by embracing a data-driven approach, Governments at all levels could better serve their citizens and promote social equity and economic progress.

In her remarks, Adebusola Oyeyemi, TCI State Manager, said accurate statistics would assist Government to plan for her citizens.

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Represented by Daniel Oluwafunso, TCI Demand Generation State Technical Lead, Oyeyemi said by prioritizing family planning, the nation could better allocate resources and mitigate issues such as crime, poverty, and maternal mortality.

According to her, overpopulation has been identified as a significant contributor to various socio-economic problems in Nigeria, including increased crime rates.

Also speaking, Ololade Abatan, family planning coordinator in Osun State, 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.

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She stressed the need to dispel misconceptions and rumors surrounding family planning to increase its acceptance among the general population.

Abatan said family planning is essential for maintaining healthy living and preventing population explosion. Proper planning enables individuals and families to meet their needs, ensure the well-being of mothers and children and contribute to a healthier society.