FG Announces Date For Population Census

President Bola Tinubu’s administration has announced that Nigeria will conduct its first population census in 19 years in 2025, marking a critical step toward bridging the nation’s data gap.

The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Isa Kwarra, made this announcement during the 2024 Anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Abuja.

The last census in Nigeria was conducted in 2006, leaving an 18-year hiatus without updated demographic data despite the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to conduct a census every decade. Initially planned for 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, the exercise was postponed to allow the incoming government to oversee the process effectively.

Kwarra highlighted the challenges posed by the prolonged delay, stating that the lack of accurate population data has hindered effective resource allocation, particularly in underserved rural areas. He noted that without current statistics, the government faces difficulties tailoring reproductive health services and addressing demographic-specific needs.

“This gap in accurate population data poses challenges in tailoring reproductive health services and interventions to specific demographic groups, ultimately undermining progress toward reducing maternal mortality and improving access to family planning,” Kwarra explained.

During his address, Kwarra emphasized the significance of the census for advancing Nigeria’s development goals, particularly in areas of sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and empowerment.

“Our focus is on advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation,” Kwarra stated, underscoring the broader implications of population data for social and economic justice.

The NPC Chairman also stressed the importance of empowering women and young people, noting that societal progress is hindered when individuals are denied the ability to make choices about their health and lives.

As Nigeria gears up for the 2025 census, the government aims to address logistical and financial challenges to ensure the successful execution of this critical national exercise. The census is expected to provide essential data to guide policymaking, resource distribution, and development planning, laying a foundation for more inclusive growth across the nation.
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