Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, the prominent figure at the helm of the House of Representatives, recently made a resounding declaration that Nigeria’s Population and Housing Census must take place this year. This imperative announcement came to light during a momentous visit to his office by officials from the National Population Commission (NPC), shedding light on the critical need for accurate demographic data in the country.
Expressing a sense of urgency, Speaker Abbas underscored the challenges that could impede the census if postponed to 2026, citing the impending distractions posed by the 2027 elections as a compelling reason to act promptly. His unwavering commitment to this cause was evident as he lauded President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement of a biometric-based census, heralding it as a transformative solution that could dispel the inaccuracies of outdated population estimates.
“We must ensure that the next census occurs this year because, by 2026, election campaigns will divert our attention. Many believe that Nigeria’s population is not as high as projected. There is low voter turnout and school enrollment figures that contradict these estimates,” Speaker Abbas articulated passionately, emphasizing the pressing need for a robust census this year.
Acknowledging the significant data gaps that have emerged due to delays in conducting the census, Speaker Abbas pledged to collaborate closely with President Tinubu to prioritize this essential national undertaking. Drawing from his deep well of political acumen, he highlighted the pivotal role of adequate funding in ensuring the success of the NPC’s ambitious census plans, assuring unwavering support from the House of Representatives.
In a poignant display of unity and purpose, NPC Chairman Nasir Isa Kwarra solicited the National Assembly’s support in securing the necessary funds for the 2025 Population and Housing Census, echoing Speaker Abbas’s sentiments on the urgent need for accurate demographic data. Emphasizing the Commission’s forward-looking approach, Kwarra detailed the significant milestones achieved in preparation for the census, which was initially slated for 2023.
Challenges and Solutions in Census Preparation
The road to conducting a comprehensive census in Nigeria is fraught with challenges, ranging from logistical complexities to financial constraints. However, the resolve exhibited by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, President Bola Tinubu, and NPC Chairman Nasir Isa Kwarra signals a collective determination to surmount these obstacles and deliver an accurate demographic snapshot of the nation.
One of the key challenges identified is the need for robust funding to support the extensive operations required for a successful census. While the NPC’s current budget for 2025 may fall short of the necessary resources, the proactive stance taken by Speaker Abbas in exploring alternative funding sources underscores a spirit of innovation and adaptability essential for overcoming financial constraints.
Moreover, the shift towards a biometric-based census represents a pivotal step towards modernizing Nigeria’s data collection methods, aligning with global best practices and leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the census process. This progressive approach not only enhances the credibility of the data collected but also lays the foundation for future census cycles to build upon.
In navigating the intricate landscape of census preparation, the collaborative efforts of government officials, policymakers, and stakeholders are paramount in ensuring a seamless and transparent process. By fostering a culture of open dialogue, shared responsibility, and inclusive decision-making, Nigeria can set a precedent for conducting data-driven censuses that serve as a cornerstone for informed policymaking and equitable resource allocation.
Implications for Policy and Governance
The successful execution of the Population and Housing Census in Nigeria holds far-reaching implications for policy formulation, governance effectiveness, and socio-economic development. Accurate demographic data serves as the bedrock upon which evidence-based policies are crafted, enabling policymakers to address pressing issues such as healthcare provision, education access, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs with precision and foresight.
By harnessing the insights gleaned from a comprehensive census, government officials can identify demographic trends, assess population distribution patterns, and tailor interventions to meet the needs of diverse communities across the country. This targeted approach not only enhances the efficiency of public service delivery but also fosters a sense of inclusivity and equity that underpins sustainable development and social cohesion.
Furthermore, the transparent and participatory nature of the census process fosters trust between citizens and government institutions, laying the groundwork for accountable governance, data-driven decision-making, and civic engagement. As Nigeria embarks on the journey towards conducting a landmark census this year, the ripple effects of this monumental effort are poised to redefine the trajectory of the nation’s development trajectory and pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for all its citizens.
