By Ayodele Popoola

|

The newly appointed Federal Commissioner for the National Population Commission (NPC) in Ondo State, Olukemi Victoria Iyantan, has officially taken office, vowing to lead a data-driven census that will prioritise inclusivity and accuracy.

Mrs. Iyantan took the oath of office on February 3, 2025, administered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.

According to Weekend Hope, Iyantan was warmly welcomed by the State Director of the Commission, Olayinka Chijioke, alongside other staff members in Akure.

In her address, Iyantan stressed the critical role of accurate population data in driving national development.

She assured that the commission would undertake significant efforts to raise awareness, especially among rural communities.

“We will embark on a wide-reaching sensitisation campaign to educate the people of the state on the importance of the population census for national development.”

“The commission is committed to ensuring that the public understands how precise population data enables the government to plan effectively for the people,”  she declared.

Iyantan reiterated that the commission plays a central role in advancing the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a prosperous Nigeria.

During a tour of the commission’s facilities, she called on staff to fully support the achievement of the commission’s goals, highlighting that the task at hand demands collective effort.

The commissioner also emphasised the need for a robust, data-driven headcount, noting that while telecommunications data is useful, it cannot replace a comprehensive population census, as not all Nigerians use mobile phones.

In response, the State Director of the Commission, Olayinka Chijioke, assured full cooperation and commitment to the new commissioner.

She expressed confidence that Iyantan’s leadership would strengthen the bond between the commission, the state government, and other vital stakeholders in preparation for the long-awaited census.

The assumption of office was marked by a prayer session led by Pastor Chris Akinyemi of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Ondo Province 1, who urged the commission’s staff to offer their unwavering support to Iyantan.

Iyantan succeeds Prince Garvey Iyantan, the former Federal Commissioner for Ondo State, whose tenure ended in 2023.