.Delay in exercise hampering decision-making, resource allocation – NPC

The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Kwarra, on Thursday announced plans by the Federal Government to conduct Nigeria’s population and housing census in 2025.

This is coming 18 years after the last census held in 2006.

The NPC chairman disclosed this during the 2024 anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development held in Abuja on Thursday.

According to him, “A major setback that we face is the delay in conducting a Population and Housing Census.

“A reliable and accurate census is fundamental for a good decision making.

“But the government, at the highest level, is committed to conducting a census, and we believe it will take place next year.”

The announcement came 18 years after Nigeria’s last census in 2006, despite the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to conduct population counts every 10 years.

During the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, attempts were made to conduct the census in 2023 but they were eventually postponed.

The development was attributed to the desire of the Buhari administration to let the incoming government take ownership of the process.

The NPC chairman in his speech at Thursday’s event, stressed the significant impact of the delay in the exercise, particularly in hampering informed decision-making and effective resource allocation.

Kwarra also highlighted the need for accurate data to address pressing issues in rural and underserved areas.

He noted that Nigeria’s inability to conduct timely censuses had hindered progress in advancing sexual and reproductive health rights, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting inclusivity.

The NPC boss stated, “We are gathered in the spirit of a shared commitment to progress, inclusivity, and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women and young people.

“Our focus is on advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation.

“We must continue our march to address these challenges head-on. For many in our communities—particularly women, girls, and young people—sexual and reproductive health rights remain out of reach.

“This is not just a health issue; it is also an issue of social and economic justice.

“When individuals are denied the ability to make choices about their health and lives, it limits their potential, reduces opportunities, and impacts society as a whole.”

In her remarks, the Founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, Mrs Toyin Saraki, pledged continued advocacy and policy support to advance the ICPD agenda.

Saraki urged private, philanthropic, and multi-sector stakeholders to collaborate in accelerating progress toward achieving the initiative’s goals.