President Bola Tinubu has launched a high-powered committee tasked with ensuring the successful execution of the forthcoming National Population and Housing Census, emphasising the urgent need for updated demographic data to drive national development.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Femi Gbajabiamila, President Tinubu highlighted the critical importance of conducting a fresh and credible census, as the last exercise, held in 2006, is now significantly outdated.

He stressed that accurate population data is essential for effective planning and sustainable development across various sectors, including healthcare, education, security, and economic growth.

“Reliable population data is pivotal for informed decision-making,” the president stated, calling for a technology-driven approach and robust collaboration among relevant agencies to ensure the census’s success.

The committee’s mandate includes exploring both domestic and international funding avenues to meet the substantial financial requirements of a national census.

President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to delivering a data-driven census that aligns with national priorities and supports the implementation of his “Renewed Hope Agenda”.

He urged the committee to work diligently and deliver results that will inform sound governance decisions.

Senator Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning and Chairman of the committee, assured the President that the team would meet the three-week deadline set for its task. 

He disclosed that the committee had already commenced work, focusing on recommending practical strategies for resource mobilisation and addressing potential challenges without delay.

Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, revealed that his ministry is prepared to lead extensive public sensitisation campaigns in collaboration with agencies like the National Orientation Agency and private sector media platforms.

“We are ready to ensure the public is fully informed and engaged in this crucial national exercise,” he said in an interview.

Alhaji Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of the National Population Commission, emphasised the commission’s commitment to conducting a transparent and verifiable census. 

He stated that the current focus is on identifying necessary requirements and establishing the groundwork for a credible, technology-enabled census. 

“Our goal is to deliver a census that Nigerians can trust,” Kwarra affirmed.