By Adeyemi Adekunle
The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Kwarra, revealed that Nigeria will conduct its long-awaited population and housing census in 2025, nearly two decades after the last count in 2006.
The declaration came during the 2024 anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development, held in Abuja on Thursday.
Kwarra addressed the pressing need for this census, emphasizing that reliable and accurate population data is essential for informed decision-making across various sectors.
“It is crucial for resource allocation and national development,” he stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to moving forward with the vital process next year.
The upcoming census is significant not only because it follows an 18-year gap but also in light of the United Nations’ recommendation for nations to conduct population counts every decade.
Previous plans to hold a census in 2023 were stalled during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, with the delay attributed to the desire for the incoming government to oversee the counting process.
During the event, Kwarra lamented the adverse consequences of the extended delay, particularly its hindrance on effective resource allocation and decision-making. “Accurate data is critical for identifying and addressing the needs of rural and underserved communities,” he asserted.
Given Nigeria’s diverse demographics, understanding population dynamics is vital for addressing the unique challenges faced by various regions.
Moreover, Kwarra noted that the failure to conduct timely censuses has hampered progress in critical areas such as sexual and reproductive health rights, gender-based violence prevention, and inclusivity within societies.
He highlighted that issues extend beyond health; they are fundamental to social and economic justice. “The lack of accurate data limits opportunities and potential for many, especially women, girls, and the youth,” he emphasized.
The event also featured Toyin Saraki, founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, who expressed her support for the ICPD agenda. She urged for collaboration among private, philanthropic, and multi-sector stakeholders to expedite progress towards the initiative’s goals.
As Nigeria prepares for this significant undertaking in 2025, the hope is that the upcoming census will not only rectify long-standing data gaps but also lay a foundation for sustainable development that prioritizes the needs of all citizens.
