After years of delay, Nigeria will finally conduct its national population census in 2025, the National Population Commission (NPC) has confirmed.
The announcement was made by the Chairman of the NPC, Nasir Isa Kwarra, on Thursday during the 2024 Anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).
The census, which has been long overdue, was originally scheduled for 2023 but was delayed twice under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Kwarra explained that the delay in conducting the census has had serious consequences for the country’s ability to properly assess its population needs and allocate resources effectively.
“We are now committed to conducting the census in 2025 to address these issues,” Kwarra said.
Kwarra emphasized that the lack of accurate and up-to-date population data has affected various sectors, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
A Critical Need for Accurate Data
According to Kwarra, the absence of reliable population data has hindered the government’s ability to allocate resources where they are most needed.
“The major setback Nigeria faces is the delay in conducting a population and housing census, which is fundamental for informed decision-making,” he noted.
He also highlighted the challenges posed by this gap in data when it comes to addressing specific health needs, such as maternal mortality and family planning.
“This gap in accurate population data poses challenges in tailoring reproductive health services and interventions to specific demographic groups,” Kwarra explained.
The Chairman pointed out that accurate census data is critical to improving health services and meeting the needs of various population groups.
A Long-Overdue Exercise
The last population census in Nigeria was conducted in 2006, despite the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to carry out a census every 10 years.
Nigeria’s failure to hold a census within this recommended timeframe has left a significant gap in demographic data, making it difficult to plan for national development.
“We need the census to guide us in making crucial decisions,” Kwarra said.
The delay in conducting the census also meant that Nigeria did not have accurate data to inform policies, particularly in key areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
Kwarra stressed that the census is vital for creating policies that will foster social progress and inclusivity.
“Accurate data is critical for ensuring that resources are allocated equitably and that we can provide services that meet the needs of all Nigerians,” he added.
A New Beginning for National Development
The NPC Chairman also highlighted the importance of using the census as a tool to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities, especially for women and young people.
He mentioned the shared commitment to improving sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence, and ensuring equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
“Our focus is on advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence (GBV), and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation,” Kwarra stated.
The census will provide critical information needed to address these issues, ensuring that programs and services are targeted at the right groups.
Kwarra’s statements came at a time when civil society organizations (CSOs) have been calling for urgent action to address the country’s population data challenges.
Many have stressed that the census will provide the data needed to tackle the growing issues of poverty, maternal health, and gender inequality in Nigeria.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 2025
The NPC’s confirmation of the 2025 census date marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s efforts to address its demographic challenges.
For years, the country has been without reliable population data, and this has led to inefficiencies in policy-making and resource allocation.
The census will be a major step towards ensuring that Nigeria’s development is based on accurate, up-to-date information.
The NPC has already begun preparations for the 2025 census, and officials are confident that it will be a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to promote sustainable development.
“With the census in 2025, we will be able to move forward with a clear understanding of our population and its needs,” Kwarra concluded.
