V-PeSDI Advocates for Extensive and Reliable Data Systems for PWDs in Kano State

The Vulnerable People Support and Development Initiative (V-PeSDI) has called for strengthened data collection and analysis systems for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Kano State. The call was made during a courtesy visit to the Director of the Kano State Bureau of Statistics, Dr. Surajo Suleiman.

During the visit, V-PeSDI Coordinator, Hannatu Suleiman, emphasized that accurate, reliable, and inclusive data is crucial for effective planning, equitable resource distribution, and the development of policies that truly address the needs of vulnerable communities.

She noted that although V-PeSDI has been actively engaging PWDs across the state with measurable impact, inadequate data capture remains a major challenge hindering high-level policy implementation. She added that the familiarization visit aims to strengthen collaboration and enhance intervention pathways for marginalized groups.

In his remarks, Dr. Surajo reiterated the Kano State Government’s commitment to comprehensive and inclusive data collection. He explained that the Bureau has recently conducted a census of health facilities, as well as graveyards and places of worship, to support improved demographic data tracking.

According to him, “These efforts are part of our strategy to gather weekly case data and better understand birth and death rates across the state. While we can obtain information from health facilities, traditional rulers also play a critical role in providing accurate local data. Our focus now is on monitoring maternal and child mortality. If we observe any increase, we will immediately alert the government to take necessary action. And if the numbers are not reducing, we will advise the government on areas that require urgent intervention.”

He further pledged the Bureau’s readiness to collaborate with civil society organizations and international partners to enhance data quality and strengthen overall service delivery in Kano State.