Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Nigeria’s National Population Commission (NPC) has announced that the country’s long-overdue national census will be conducted in 2025.
This announcement was made on Thursday by the NPC Chairman, Nasir Isa Kwarra, during the 2024 Anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development in Abuja.
According to Kwarra, the delay in conducting the census has significantly impacted Nigeria’s ability to assess population needs and allocate resources, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
He emphasized that the lack of accurate population data has posed challenges in tailoring reproductive health services and interventions to specific demographic groups.
Nigeria last conducted a population census in 2006, despite the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to hold one every 10 years.
The census exercise, initially scheduled for 2023, was postponed twice under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, which opted to allow the incoming government to oversee the process.
Kwarra highlighted the significance of accurate data in driving social progress and inclusivity.
“The major setback Nigeria faces is the delay in conducting a population and housing census, which is fundamental for informed decision-making.
“We are gathered in the spirit of a shared commitment to progress, inclusivity, and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women and young people.”, the NPC Chairman said.
He noted that the delay in conducting the census has undermined progress toward reducing maternal mortality and improving access to family planning.
“This gap in accurate population data poses challenges in tailoring reproductive health services and interventions to specific demographic groups, ultimately undermining progress toward reducing maternal mortality and improving access to family planning,” Kwarra stated
The NPC chairman emphasized that the 2025 census will be crucial in addressing the country’s development challenges.
He reiterated the importance of accurate data in informing decision-making across various sectors, particularly in advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting equal opportunities for all.
“Our focus is on advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence (GBV), and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation,” he explained.
