The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has expressed concern over the prolonged delay in conducting a national population census, emphasizing its importance in establishing Nigeria’s true numerical strength.
Speaking in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the board and management of the National Population Commission (NPC), led by Chairman Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra and Director-General Dr. Ojogun Tellson Osifo, Speaker Abbas stressed that a biometric census is long overdue.
He expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for the NPC to conduct a biometric-based census in 2025, describing the 19-year gap since the last census as unacceptable for a country of Nigeria’s size.
“A census exercise will help dispel doubts by critics who claim the country’s population is exaggerated,” Abbas said, adding that “statistics don’t lie.” He further noted that a biometric system is essential for accurate population data collection with minimal resource deployment.
To accelerate progress, the Speaker announced plans to meet with President Tinubu after liaising with the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
“I will be part of those who will engage Mr. President on the issue of conducting the census this year,” Abbas stated, highlighting that the Federal Government might need to explore alternative funding sources, including the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), due to the NPC’s inadequate budget.
Abbas remarked that the census could be a historic achievement for Nigeria and an enduring legacy for President Tinubu.
Earlier, NPC Chairman Hon. Kwarra briefed the Speaker on the Commission’s preparations, including technology acquisition, recruitment and training of officials, establishment of a situation room, and advocacy efforts involving engagement with former Presidents and ex-Heads of State.
Kwarra sought the National Assembly’s support, particularly in securing adequate funding and the passage of enabling laws, to ensure the success of the exercise.
Vanguard
