The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Kwarra, has announced that Nigeria will conduct a long-overdue Population and Housing Census in 2025. This comes 18 years after the last census was held in 2006, despite the United Nations’ recommendation for countries to conduct population counts every 10 years.
Kwarra made this announcement on Thursday during the 2024 anniversary of the Nairobi Summit on the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), held in Abuja. He emphasized that the government is fully committed to ensuring the census is conducted, recognizing its significance for accurate data-driven decision-making.
“A reliable and accurate census is fundamental for good decision-making. The government, at the highest level, is committed to conducting a census, and we believe it will take place next year,” he stated.
Delays and Challenges
Previous plans to conduct the census in 2023 were postponed under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The delay was attributed to a desire to allow the incoming administration to take ownership of the process. Kwarra explained that the postponement had caused significant setbacks, particularly in resource allocation and planning for underserved communities.
“The delay has hindered progress in advancing sexual and reproductive health rights, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting inclusivity,” Kwarra noted.
He added that accurate census data is critical for addressing pressing issues in rural and underserved areas, ensuring fair resource distribution, and creating effective policies for national development.
Focus on Empowerment and Equity
Kwarra also underscored the importance of inclusivity, particularly for women, girls, and young people, in Nigeria’s development agenda.
“We are gathered in the spirit of a shared commitment to progress, inclusivity, and the empowerment of individuals. For many in our communities, sexual and reproductive health rights remain out of reach,” he said.
He stressed that denying individuals the ability to make choices about their health limits their potential and impacts society at large, framing the issue as one of both social and economic justice.
Collaborative Efforts
Toyin Saraki, founder of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, pledged continued advocacy and support for the ICPD agenda. Saraki called for collaboration among private, philanthropic, and multi-sector stakeholders to accelerate progress in achieving the initiative’s goals.
She highlighted the need for joint efforts to address the challenges Nigeria faces, including gender inequality and insufficient health infrastructure, urging stakeholders to work together for sustainable solutions.
The 2025 census is expected to provide critical data that will guide Nigeria’s development strategies, ensure equitable resource distribution, and address the socio-economic needs of underserved populations. It marks a significant step in addressing the data gaps that have hindered progress and policy-making in recent years.
