'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The National Population Commission (NPC) has announced plans to conduct Nigeria’s population and housing census in 2025.
The commission’s chairman, Nasir Isa Kwarra, made the announcement on Thursday in Abuja at the 2024 Anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).
Initially planned for 2023, the exercise was postponed twice under the previous administration. The last national census in Nigeria was conducted in 2006, falling short of the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to hold a census every 10 years.
Kwarra emphasised that the delay in conducting the census has hindered Nigeria’s ability to effectively assess population needs and allocate resources, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“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. The major setback Nigeria faces is the delay in conducting a population and housing census, which is fundamental for informed decision-making”, he said.
Kwarra reiterated the importance of accurate data in driving social progress and inclusivity.
“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 (GBV) and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation”, he said.
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