By President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated a high-powered committee to oversee the planning and execution of Nigeria’s long-awaited national population and housing census. The eight-member committee, launched on Wednesday at the State House in Abuja, has just three weeks to submit an interim report to the presidency.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga emphasized the importance of the census, last conducted in 2006, saying it will be key to effective planning in areas such as healthcare, education, security, and the economy. Nigeria’s last headcount recorded over 140 million people, but the population has since grown significantly—necessitating updated data for national development.
Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, urged the committee to embrace innovation. “The census must be technology-driven,” he said, calling for biometric integration and digital tools to ensure credible and verifiable results. He also encouraged collaboration across government agencies and stakeholders.
Underscoring the financial challenges, Tinubu advised the team to explore both local and international funding sources. “We cannot budget properly without knowing how many people we’re budgeting for,” he stressed. He tasked the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to lead the effort, given its central role in national resource allocation.
Senator Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning and chairman of the committee, promised to deliver a comprehensive report within the deadline. He echoed the President’s call for creativity, noting the need for practical, cost-effective strategies—especially amid Nigeria’s current economic strain.
Also speaking at the event, Information Minister Muhammed Idris said a credible census was essential for data accuracy across sectors. National Population Commission Chairman Nasir Kwarra, who serves as secretary of the committee, added that the groundwork is already in progress. “The NPC is committed to delivering a reliable, technology-driven headcount,” he assured.
