President Bola Tinubu has announced plans to establish a committee to align the proposed national census with Nigeria’s financial realities, 18 years after the country’s last census. The President made this known on Monday, February 24, 2025, following a meeting with officials of the National Population Commission (NPC), led by its Chairman, Nasir Kwarra.
According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Nigeria’s population and housing census has faced multiple delays since the last exercise in November 2006. He cited inadequate funding, insecurity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and political transitions as major obstacles. The 2023 census, initially scheduled under the previous administration, was postponed due to budget constraints and electoral transitions.
Tinubu stressed the need for a structured and realistic approach, saying, “This stop-and-go activity on the census cannot work with me. We better have a definite path. I will set up a committee to critically assess the issues and identify resources before any proclamation.”
The President also highlighted the importance of accurate population data for national planning, particularly in employment, agriculture, and food security. “We must ascertain who we are, how many we are, and how to manage our data. Without an accurate census, we can’t successfully plan for employment, agriculture, and food sovereignty,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to conducting a credible national census, stating that reliable data would enhance development planning and improve Nigerians’ living conditions.
